SDSU Athletic Director Mum on Reason for Beth Burns Retirement

The search is on for a new San Diego State University women’s basketball coach after the recent surprising retirement of veteran coach Beth Burns.

Aztecs Athletics Director Jim Sterk didn't shed any light on the question many are asking: why did Burns retire eight months after signing a five year contract extension and after coaching the Aztecs to a 27 win season?

“She made the decision to retire,” Sterk said, adding that he would not get into the details on why Burns made the decision to retire.

Men’s coach Steve Fisher said he’s been on vacation since the day Burns announced her retirement.

“I will miss her greatly,” he said. “She’s one of my all-time favorites. She’s a terrific basketball coach.”

Burns, who coached for 16 years, has the most wins in Aztecs women’s basketball history.

As for why she decided to retire so suddenly, Coach Fisher said he wanted to keep their conversations private.

Fisher said he didn’t think it was a health issue or an infraction with the university or the team that prompted the retirement.
 

Contact Us