Mike Bradbury out as UNM women's basketball coach

The Mike Bradbury era of UNM women's basketball is over. The veteran coach and new UNM Athletic Director Ryan Berryman came to an agreement on a buyout of his contract on Friday — paying Bradbury through the end of this contract year (June 30), then a settlement of $150,000. Bradbury, who was making $305,000 annually and was under contract through the 2027-28 season, had sought a contract extension, but Berryman was not comfortable with it given the team’s results.

A national search for a replacement has begun. Berryman told the Journal he and his staff do not plan to use a search firm. “I’d like to thank the University of New Mexico for the last 10 years,” Bradbury said in a statement released by UNM.

“I am proud of the program we built and the consistency we have had to compete at the top of the conference. This was the journey of a lifetime, but the time has come for something new. “I am also proud of what we accomplished, the 200 wins and a regular season championship (2021).

I am proud of all the student athletes I had the opportunity to coach and their commitment to Lobo women’s basketball. “I am grateful for everyone who has been a part of this journey. I would like to thank the administration, both former and current, the fans and the City of Albuquerque for being such an important part of my family's journey.