Thad Matta Talks Health Issues, Says He Couldn't Take Shoes off After Games

Thad Matta's tenure as head coach of Ohio State basketball came to an end Monday, and health concerns played a major role.

The team announced the move in a release, via Matt Norlander of CBS Sports, saying simply he "will no longer be the men's head basketball coach." However, Matta explained in a press conference that his health is the primary issue.

"I went through a year where I couldn't walk," the 49-year-old said, via Nicole Auerbach of USA Today. "Couldn't take my shoes off after a game."

When asked if he would still be with the Buckeyes if he were healthy, he responded, "Yeah, probably," via Rob Dauster of NBC Sports.

On the plus side, he could potentially return to coaching if he were able to get over his back and foot problems.

"Never say never," Matta said, per Joe Danneman of Fox19. "My whole focus now is trying to get healthy."

Although the timing of this move is bizarre, Ohio State is coming off a disappointing season where the squad failed to qualify for the NCAA tournament or the NIT. The 17-15 record was the worst in Matta's 13 years with the program.

Still, the former Butler and Xavier coach led the Buckeyes to a 337-123 record with four Big Ten tournament titles and two Final Four appearances.