Social media reacts to the University of Maryland hiring its new Athletic Director
The University of Maryland made it official on Thursday when it hired Jim Smith as the new Athletic Director, replacing Damon Evans.
"We are proud of the athletics tradition here at the University of Maryland and of the accomplishments of our coaches and student-athletes who represent the red, black, white and gold," said UMD President Darryll J. Pines. "As college athletics rapidly evolves, Jim brings valuable administrative and business experience, plus the energy, vision and passion to lead our athletics program to new levels of success and impact."
Smith has worked in athletics for more than two decades at both university and professional organizations, including the Atlanta Braves, the Ohio State University, Atlanta Falcons, AMB Sports & Entertainment, and the Columbus Crew among others.
Following his hire, social media had its input. Here are some of the best reactions we could find.
Hopefully James can get us the M Flag back. pic.twitter.com/XCFg6NVVRR
— Justin Z (@JayZMD) May 15, 2025
We got a money guy in there pic.twitter.com/zjTbOkKnPj
— Weezus Dangerously™ (@Weezus410) May 15, 2025
Definitely a reflection of the changing environment of college athletics.
— Scott Wachenheim (@CoachSWach) May 15, 2025
Did UMD FINALLY get it right this time after all these years of “Ready, fire, aim!” ???? …
— Chris Breslin (@flamingtarhead) May 15, 2025
Maryland is finalizing the hire of Atlanta Braves executive Jim Smith as its next athletic director, sources tell @YahooSports. Smith has spent time with the Falcons also and is a former Ohio State administrator with a background in revenue generation and fundraising.
— Ross Dellenger (@RossDellenger) May 15, 2025
𝐀 𝐁𝐨𝐥𝐝 𝐒𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐚 𝐧𝐞𝐰 𝐄𝐫𝐚
— Cʜᴜᴄᴋ ᴅᴏᴜɢʟᴀs ✪ (@ChuckDouglas_) May 15, 2025
Today is an exciting day in the next chapter of Maryland Athletics..
James E. Smith is the new Barry P. Gossett Director of Athletics. Smith and will oversee the University’s Department of Intercollegiate Athletics team of more… pic.twitter.com/OHrWViS7yi
Maryland put its men's lacrosse coach on the AD search committee in the middle of his season. Now John Tillman tells The Diamondback he couldn't make any meetings, didn't vote and never met Jim Smith or saw his resume.
— Taylor Lyons (@taylorjlyons) May 15, 2025
If that confuses you, you're not alone. https://t.co/Kibyk9aqbf
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Trent began writing and covering Michigan athletics back in 2020. He became a credentialed member of the media in 2021. Trent began writing with Sports Illustrated in 2023 and became the Senior Writer for Michigan Wolverines On SI for the 2024 football season. Trent is also the managing editor for Maryland On SI. Trent’s love of sports and being able to tell stories to fans is what made him get into writing.