"I met with [Duquesne University President] Dr. [Charles] Dougherty and [Director of Athletics] Greg Amodio this morning and informed them of my decision," said Nee. "I told the team after practice this afternoon."
"I feel it is best for Duquesne and our players that I move on at this time," he continued. "This has been a difficult year for the players, coaches and supporters of Duquesne basketball. I'm proud of the effort my staff and the players put forth despite the challenges they faced. As for the future, I plan to keep working. The game of basketball has been - and will continue to be - a big part of my life."
Nee, who is completing his 26th season as a head coach, is 42-101 in five years at Duquesne. His most successful season at Duquesne was in 2003-04 when he led the Dukes to a 12-17 record and a victory in the first round of the Atlantic 10 Championship. Duquesne, which did not qualify for the 2005-06 Atlantic 10 Championship, will take a 3-23 record into the Saint Joseph's game. Nee's career record stands at 410-379.
"I am grateful to Danny for putting the best interests of both Duquesne and our student-athletes at the forefront in making his decision," said Dr. Dougherty. "I thank him for his years of service and wish him and his family all the best."
"Danny and his staff have represented Duquesne with class and I thanked him for that," said Amodio of the morning meeting. "I plan to begin a thorough national search for a new coach immediately," he continued. "I am confident that we will find the right fit as we move forward to renew men's basketball at Duquesne. I'd also like to make it clear that I will not be commenting on any aspect of the hiring process until we are prepared to name a new head coach."