Former Ohio State men's basketball coach Thad Matta turned down an offer Wednesday afternoon to become Georgia's new coach.
Matta was in Athens on Monday and Tuesday, visiting with athletic director Greg McGarity and touring the Bulldogs' facilities.
"It was the most difficult decision, because Georgia is a tremendous opportunity for a coach to build a great program," Mattatold ESPN. "Unfortunately, I just don't feel that I am completely ready at this point to give Greg McGarity and Georgia what they deserve."
Matta, who guided the Buckeyes to the Final Four in 2007 and again in 2012, was the first to be extended an offer since Saturday's news of Mark Fox's firing after nine seasons at Georgia. Fox compiled a 163-133 overall record but was 77-79 in Southeastern Conference games and guided the program to just two NCAA tournament appearances.
The Bulldogs could turn their search to former Marquette and Indiana coach Tom Crean, who has worked as an ESPN analyst this season.
Contact David Paschall at dpaschall@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6524.