San Diego won't bring back Steve Lavin next season

Toreros coach to finish 4th season but won't return after 11-17 record

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The University of San Diego announced that men's basketball coach Steve Lavin will finish the 2026-27 season but will not return next year. Lavin, who has a 46-79 record in his four seasons with the Toreros, led the team to just one winning season in 2023-24 and never took them to the NCAA Tournament.

Why it matters

San Diego has struggled to find consistent success in men's basketball, with just five winning seasons and one NCAA Tournament appearance since 2006-07. The school is looking to elevate the program and become a regular contender in the West Coast Conference.

The details

Lavin, who previously coached at UCLA and St. John's, was hired by San Diego in 2022 to take over the struggling program. However, he has been unable to turn things around, with the Toreros posting an 11-17 record so far this season. Last week, the team also dismissed its leading scorer, Ty-Laur Johnson, though no reason was given for the dismissal.

  • The Toreros are 11-17 headed into Saturday's game at Loyola Marymount.
  • The West Coast Conference Tournament begins on March 5 in Las Vegas.

The players

Steve Lavin

The current head coach of the University of San Diego men's basketball team, who will not be retained after this season.

Ty-Laur Johnson

The leading scorer for the University of San Diego men's basketball team, who was recently dismissed from the team for undisclosed reasons.

Kimya Massey

The athletic director at the University of San Diego, who stated the school's commitment to elevating the men's basketball program to become a regular contender in the West Coast Conference.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Teaching and coaching at the University of San Diego has been an experience of unparalleled pride and joy. Specifically, I will carry forward the gift of participating in our players' journeys and will treasure the relationships forged along the way.”

— Steve Lavin (University of San Diego statement)

“Competing in the upper tier of the West Coast Conference and being a regular participant in the NCAA Tournament should be the expectation for this program. We are committed to providing the leadership, NIL and revenue-sharing investment, and student-athlete support necessary to recruit and sustain a roster that makes both USD and the community proud.”

— Kimya Massey, Athletic Director, University of San Diego (University of San Diego statement)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.