◆ Read departing Lobos baketball coach Paul Weir’s letter.

An open letter Paul Weir posted to UNM’s official basketball Twitter account Tuesday:

“I have lived out a boyhood dream for the past 17 years and accomplished more than I ever remotely imagined to be possible. I want to first thank all of my former players. You guys provided a life for me that s o few are lucky enough to experience. To my coaches and staff who worked tirelessly along the way thank you for your dedication. My friends, supporters, fans, professors and countless others who have been by my side, I will always remain indebted. The head coaches and athletic directors that opened doors for me, know I have as sincere an appreciation for your belief in me as any one person can have. Last and most important, to my family both here and afar — I am finally coming home!

May have already asked what is next. I am eager to explore the many interests that have piqued me at different points along the way of my coaching career. In that light, I am incredibly thankful to [UNM] President [Garnett] Stokescq, [athletic director] Eddie Nuñezcq, and all the personnel at UNM that have enabled me to freely seek new employment without mitigation.

It speaks to the morality of the current leadership of this wonderful institution that will surely carry it forward to greater heights. Wherever that takes me I can’t promise but know that I will work even harder than I did to arrive here and completely immerse myself into this exciting next step.

I will be available to assist the next coach in whatever way (or not) they wish to ensure a smooth succession. there are some tremendously valuable components here for the right person to come in and reach that elusive Sweet Sixteen sometime soon. For now I humbly decline further commenting on this so that the focus an be on our amazing players and staff who have carried themselves impeccably throughout this unique season. This was a remarkable course and I couldn’t have asked for a better group to spend it with. My gratitude for living the life that I have for the past 17 years is boundless and I take that appreciation forward forever. My family was honored to call UNM and Albuquerque our home and it will evermore be a special place for us. I want to wish all of you in and around Lobo Basketball the best always.”

God Bless You All,