Valley native Justin Hutson, whose coaching tenure at Fresno State began with great promise, is done as the Bulldogs’ men’s basketball coach.

Hutson, who was hired in 2018 after success as an assistant coach at San Diego State and UNLV, had two 23-win seasons with the Bulldogs — including his first year.

He finished with a 92-94 record, a record marred by 12-21 and 11-20 records the past two seasons.

Hutson’s Fresno State coaching highlight: a 23-13 record and winning The Basketball Classic against Coastal Carolina in 2021-22.

“I’ve talked to the administration,” Hutson said after the Bulldogs lost 87-75 to No. 18 Utah State on Thursday in the MWC tourney quarterfinals in Las Vegas. “It’s a mutual decision. My contract is up in April. I want to express gratitude to the previous administration. To the community. It’s the right time. It’s the right time. I’ll finish off through April.”

Hutson went into more detail later with a statement on X.

Thank you to all my players and coaches!

I wish the Dogs nothing but the best. pic.twitter.com/4CdMiLkWQ0

— Justin Hutson (@CoachJHutson) March 14, 2024

Fresno State President Saúl Jiménez-Sandoval thanked Hutson for his dedication and commitment to the basketball program.

“On behalf of Fresno State, I want to thank Coach Hutson for his dedication and commitment in serving as our head basketball coach over the past six seasons,” Jiménez-Sandoval said in a statement.

“During his tenure, Coach Hutson led the program with integrity and care for his student-athletes. As he transitions from his coaching duties, we thank him for his support of our Bulldog community and appreciate his willingness to continue in a temporary advisory role during the transition.”