NCAA BASKETBALL: Charlotte hires former Cincinnati coach Wes Miller

Charlotte has named former Cincinnati and UNC Greensboro head coach Wes Miller as the new leader of its men’s basketball program.

Miller, 43, agreed to a five-year contract with the 49ers, according to ESPN. The hiring comes 10 days after Cincinnati fired Miller following an 18-15 season in 2025-26. In five seasons with the Bearcats, he posted a 100-74 record but did not make an NCAA Tournament appearance.

"I'm incredibly honored to lead the Charlotte Basketball program," Miller said. "This is a university with tremendous momentum, a passionate city behind it, and deep basketball roots in the state of North Carolina. From the moment I began talking with Athletic Director Kevin White and Chancellor Sharon Gaber, it was clear there is a shared vision to build a program defined by toughness, passion, and relentless energy. We're going to pour everything we have into developing our student-athletes, competing at the highest level, and building a team that our campus and this city are proud to rally around. The foundation is here for something special, and I can't wait to get to work because Charlotte's stock is rising."

Before Cincinnati, Miller spent 10 seasons at UNC Greensboro, compiling a 185-135 record. He led the Spartans to two NCAA Tournament appearances and was named Southern Conference Coach of the Year twice.

"Wes Miller is a proven leader with a deep understanding of the game and strong ties to basketball in our state," White said. "Throughout this process, what stood out most was his passion, competitive energy, and clear vision for building a championship culture here at Charlotte. He embodies the toughness, resilience, and commitment to the total student-athlete experience that we value, and he understands the opportunity we have to build something special for our university and our city."

Miller, a native of Greensboro, played college basketball at North Carolina from 2004-07 and won a national championship in 2005.

He replaces Aaron Fearne, who was fired on March 17 after going 47-51 in three seasons. The 49ers finished 17-17 this season, losing to South Florida in the semifinals of the American Conference tournament. Charlotte has not appeared in the NCAA Tournament since the 2004-05 season.

—Field Level Media/Reuters