After four seasons as Texas A&M’s men’s basketball head coach, Mark Turgeon accepted a contract offer from Maryland.

Turgeon met with the Aggies Monday night to tell them he was leaving after ESPN reported his likely departure amidst rumors of Maryland’s extensive coaching search. He will replace longtime Head Coach Gary Williams.

“It wasn’t easy,” Turgeon told ESPN. “But I just felt like it was a great opportunity. Maryland has a tremendous amount of tradition, is in a great area for players, and it’s in a great league with a lot of tradition. I know you can be successful there if you work hard and get lucky.”

Arizona’s Sean Miller, Notre Dame’s Mike Brey and Butler’s Brad Stevens were among the reported candidates who decided to remain at their current positions.

Replacing former Head Coach Billy Gillispie in 2007, Turgeon led the Aggies to four consecutive NCAA tournament appearances while compiling a 97-40 record during his tenure.

Bill Byrne, Texas A&M athletic director, issued a statement expressing his gratitude for Turgeon’s contributions and commented on the program’s next move.

“I’m confident we’re going to have someone come in who will represent the values of Texas A&M, make sure the kids have a good experience and graduate,” Byrne said. “We’ll make sure they have a great experience here because I’m excited about the future of this basketball team coming up.”

With Turgeon gone, A&M will need to fill the position after finishing 24-9 last season and No. 24 in the polls.

Maryland had been searching for a new head coach since 66-year old Gary Williams retired last season.  Williams, who led the Terrapins to 14 NCAA tournament appearances, won a National Championship in 2002, making the job an alluring position.