Chris Mack acknowledges he's out as Louisville Cardinals men's basketball coach

Chris Mack told reporters Wednesday that he isn't «bitter at all» following his expected departure as Louisville men's basketball coach.

Mack spoke shortly before a joint meeting between the board of trustees and University of Louisville Athletic Association to approve his separation agreement. The contract Mack signed in 2018 called for a $12 million buyout, but the two sides negotiated a lower amount as part of the agreement, sources told ESPN.

«It's a hard place,» Mack said Wednesday. «You've gotta win games.»

Mack and interim athletic director Josh Heird had numerous discussions throughout the season and recently, sources told ESPN, the sides agreed the place had become too toxic for Mack to continue.

Sources said both Mack and Heird were on the same page, in that it was time to go in a different direction.

«It's been building. We all want the best for Louisville and I still do. That's not going to change,» Mack said. «It's not really important when or any of that stuff. What's important is that these guys need to be able to be connected. I'm humble enough where if I'm not the right person — all good, man. Just want the best for them. They're great kids. I loved my team at Louisville. My kids loved it here. I harbor no bitterness.»

Louisville dropped to 11-9 after a road defeat at Virginia on Monday, the Cardinals' fifth loss in six games. Mack was suspended without pay for the first six games of the season and Louisville is 6-8 since his return.

The relationship between Mack and the fanbase had also deteriorated, dating to last March when the Cardinals fell short of the NCAA tournament.

«I love 'em. I love 'em,» Mack said Wednesday. «They want to win. S---, I do too. I ain't bitter at all. I got my family, I got a