Justin Rees, the Baker University women’s basketball head coach, has been “relieved of his duties” at Baker as of April 4, according to Athletic Director Nate Houser.

Houser said he takes the three goals of Baker’s Strategic Plan, the first being Exceptional Student Experience, within his role in athletics very seriously.

“We felt the women’s basketball team needed a fresh, new environment and thought the pursuit of new leadership was the way to create that change,” Houser said. “I am tasked with taking those steps as needed and we’re doing that right now.”

Juniors Emmery Joseph and Macey Frost, both members of the women’s basketball team, confirmed Assistant Coach Richard Ebel has filled the position until further notice. This change makes Ebel the interim head coach.

Houser and Susan Decker, assistant director of athletics and senior women’s administrator, notified the players of the transition on April 4.

There is now an active search for the next head women’s basketball coach. With over 90 applications submitted in the first week, Houser said he hopes to begin bringing candidates onto campus for interviews in the next few weeks.