MACOMB, Ill. - Western Illinois University Director of Athletics Dr. Tim Van Alstine today announced the resignation of Derek Thomas after five seasons as head men's basketball coach.

"I am grateful for the opportunity Western Illinois gave me to be a Division I head coach," said Thomas. "I am disappointed that we were not able to earn more victories over the past few years, but I feel very good about the way I am leaving this program, which I feel is in better shape than when I arrived five years ago."

Thomas brought 15 years of coaching experience to Macomb when he was hired prior to the 2003-04 season, and regularly brought highly-touted recruiting classes to Western Illinois. One of his first recruits was David Jackson, who earlier this season became the highest scorer in Western Illinois' Division I era, and its first player to join the 1,000-point club since 1996. This year's roster has earned the highest team grade point average of any of Thomas' teams. In 2005, HoopScoop named Thomas one of the top 30 up-and-coming coaches in America.

"We have seen Derek and his staff impact the lives of many young student-athletes over the last several years," said Western Illinois Director of Athletics Dr. Tim Van Alstine. "With a lot of tremendous hard work, he has raised the talent level and the academic level of Western Illinois basketball and has positioned us for success in the future. However, our expectations for a winning record and successful performance on the court have not been met. Our goals continue to be graduating student-athletes, winning conference championships and advancing to NCAA tournaments. After regular evaluation of our progress, it is apparent that a change needs to take place in order to realize these goals."

Thomas compiled a five-year record of 40-104, with his most successful season coming this year at 12-18. He led the Leathernecks to a 10-4 mark at home this season, earning the team's best home court record since 1998-99. His highest finish in The Summit League was a tie for fifth place in 2004-05. The Leathernecks qualified for four conference tournaments under Thomas, losing in the first round four times.

Prior to arriving at Western Illinois, Thomas spent two seasons as an assistant coach at UNLV under Charlie Spoonhour. He has also held assistant coaching positions at Illinois, Minnesota, Saint Louis and Missouri State, and has experience as a personnel scout with the Atlanta Hawks.

"I know Derek worked very hard here at Western in his first head coaching position," said Van Alstine. "I firmly believe he will use this experience and the knowledge he gained and go on to have a successful career. He will make a very good head coach in the future. I appreciate everything Derek has done for the University and the Macomb community. We wish him and his family the very best of luck."

A search for Thomas' replacement will begin immediately.