Bubba Cunningham has been Director of Athletics at Carolina since 2011. He will be stepping down in 2026.
CHAPEL HILL, N.C. β UNC Director of Athletics Bubba Cunningham will be stepping down then transitioning to Senior Advisor in summer 2026, the university announced.
Cunningham has been Athletics Director since 2011.Β
During his time, Tar Heels earned 24 national titles, 22 individual national titles and 44 ACC Tournament titles.Β
Men’s Basketball went to the Final Four three times and Women’s Basketball to the NCAA tournament nine times.Β
βBubba is a national leader in his field, and his vision and dedication have helped Carolina Athletics reach new heights while navigating an unprecedented era,β Chancellor Lee H. Roberts said.
UNC extended Cunningham’s contract until July 2029 to support the incoming Athletics Director.
Cunningham will be replaced by Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing (RFK) President Steve Newmark.Β
The contract extension allows Newmark to work under Cunningham to improve the university’s revenue share, Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) and commercial strategy before transitioning to Athletics Director.Β
Newmark is no stranger to Chapel Hill athletics. Newmark served on the advisory committee that hired Bill Belichick as head football coach.Β
Newmark will join UNC Athletics as Executive Associate Athletic Director on Aug. 15 then move up to Athletics Director in 2026.Β
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