<p>FAIRFAX, Va. — George Mason fired men’s basketball coach Dave Paulsen on Thursday, ending his tenure after six seasons that did not include an NCAA Tournament or NIT appearance.</p>
<p>The team had four winning seasons under Paulsen and went 95-91 with a 47-57 record in Atlantic 10 Conference play. The Patriots were 13-9 this past season and lost in the quarterfinals of the A10 tournament.</p>
<p>“After an extensive review and evaluation of our men’s basketball program, I have decided to make a change in our leadership," athletic director Brad Edwards said in a statement. “I am grateful for Dave’s commitment, tireless work and leadership in directing our program over the past six years. He did an admirable job in stabilizing our program."</p>
<p>Paulsen had one year remaining on his contract, which was previously extended. George Mason’s best season with him at the helm came in 2016-17 when it won 20 teams and played in the CBI Tournament.</p>
<p>The school said a national search will be conducted for Paulsen’s successor. </p>
<p>"Every decision he has made centers around the well-being of our student-athletes and what is best for them both academically and athletically," Edwards said. “Dave has represented our university and athletic department in a first-class manner and is very well-regarded among his peers in the basketball community.”</p>
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