University of Montana Athletic Director Kent Haslam extended congratulations, then began looking ahead.  Haslam (pictured) thanked Griz basketball coach Wayne Tinkle and wished him all the best in his position as the head coach at Oregon State and said that he will move swiftly but meticulously in the hiring process.

"I know I speak for all Griz fans in thanking Wayne for his commitment to the University of Montana," said Haslam, who is currently on a public relations tour with the Grizzly Scholarship Association in Great Falls. "It is always difficult to see a coach leave, but I wish Wayne and Lisa nothing but the best. I know they will be successful. We move forward now with the search for our new head men's basketball coach. We will move swiftly, but I also want to be thorough. The University of Montana is a great place to work, and I know we will attract a number of well-qualified candidates. My vision is for a coach that understands the full scope of being a leader, including a commitment to athletic excellence, academic success and community service."

Tinkle leaves the Griz with 158 career wins in 8 seasons, second-most in school history. He becomes the 21st head basketball coach at Oregon State. Our thanks to Dave Guffey, UM Sports Information for the story. DB

More From 94.9 KYSS FM