Family health matters prompt the No. 25 Knights' General Manager to depart, potentially impacting a team enjoying a historic season.
Following No. 25 UCF's first loss in nearly two months, the Knights were struck with some unfortunate news. Chris Wash, UCF Men's Basketball's General Manager, will be stepping away from his position.
Wash announced that he would be leaving the program Friday afternoon via X and was not present for the 87-76 loss against Oklahoma State Tuesday night in Stillwater, OK.
"The decision was made to prioritize pressing family matters, including a recent health diagnosis within his immediate family that requires his time, focus and presence. After conversations with all parties involved, stepping away at this point in the season was determined to be the most appropriate decision," the announcement read. "Chris is grateful for the opportunity to have been part of the UCF basketball program and appreciates the understanding and professionalism shown throughout this process. He looks forward to returning to the sport in the future when circumstances allow."
Wash had been extremely supportive of the Knights' early success, frequently posting and re-posting UCF's strides and successes via X. This past Saturday, following UCF's 81-75 upset win against Kansas, Wash wrote "Hey, Knights Nation!!! DO YOU BELIEVE NOW!!!!!! Ain't. The. Same. UCF. # ChargeON."
Wash originally joined the team during this past summer working as an NIL agent and scout. His official designation was a Special Assistant to the Head Coach.
Wash is represented by OG6 Sports Management, which he recently joined. "He has redefined fundraising in the Big 12 through his exceptional leadership and vision," according to OG6 Sports Management's homepage. "Chris is a true emerging leader in the sport, and we could not be more excited to welcome him to the #OG6FAMILY."
As far as scouting talent goes, Wash helped build quite the squad through the transfer portal this past offseason. UCF experienced a complete makeover, bringing in an entire new team. So far, the additions have proved to be impactful - helping lead the Knights to a 12-2 record and setting them up for their first March Madness appearance in over five years.
Currently, according to ESPN's Joe Lunardi, UCF is slotted in as an eight seed and would face former UCF standout forward Keyshawn Hall and the nine-seeded Auburn Tigers.
However, the Knights have a lot to do before then. UCF will look to bounce back this Sunday against a rival Cincinnati squad that is currently 8-7 and has dropped its first two games of conference play.
Tipoff is scheduled for 5:00 p.m.