VCU releases statement on Mike Rhoades' move to Penn State

Mike Rhoades has left the VCU Rams in favor of taking a Power Six job. He will be Micah Shrewsberry’s replacement at Penn State, taking over what should be a blossoming program. But before Rhoades leaves for State College, there are some goodbyes to say around VCU.

Vice President and Director of Athletics Ed McLaughlin released a statement on Rhoades leaving after 11 years with the Rams. He thanked the head coach for his dedication to the program before wishing Rhoades’ family the best. A classy move from McLaughlin before recognizing there is still room for VCU to grow.

“We would like to thank Mike Rhoades for his dedication to the VCU Men’s Basketball program and our student-athletes throughout his 11 years and especially the past six as our head coach,” the statement said. “His efforts helped continue the great traditions of VCU Basketball as a championship program that is focused on our student-athletes while achieving national prominence.

“We wish Coach Rhoades, Jodie, and their family all the best at their new home. We are excited for the future of VCU Basketball as our focus remains 100 percent on supporting student-athletes to reach our collective goals.”

Rhoades was in charge of 190 games at VCU over the course of six seasons. He made the NCAA Tournament three different times while also winning both a regular season and conference tournament championship. A great resume for a school such as the one in Richmond.

Mike Rhoades latest VCU head coach to leave for Power Six job

VCU is used to losing its coaches to top-level programs. He is the fifth Rams headman to leave for a Power Six conference head coaching job since Jeff Capel first did so in 2006. He made his way to Norman and made two NCAA Tournaments with the Oklahoma Sooners.

Anthony Grant (Alabama), Shaka Smart (Texas), and Will Wade (LSU) were prior to Rhoades and to some extent, had success. However, none of the previous four mentioned are still at the place they left VCU for. All four are still active head coaches though.

Rhoades will be taking over at Penn State after an incredible end of the season for the Nittany Lions. Making it all the way to the Big Ten Championship game, an NCAA Tournament win against Texas A&M was obtained as well. Stepping into a program with a ton of momentum, Rhoades felt like this was the right time to leave VCU.