Ga. Tech chooses Dayton's Gregory for rebuilding

"Certainly the atmosphere around the arena, the lack of fan support was certainly something that played into the decision," Radakovich said at Hewitt's firing.

Georgia Tech made five NCAA tournament appearances under Hewitt but managed only one winning season in the ACC — 9-7 during the Final Four year. His overall mark of 190-162 included a dismal 72-104 record in conference play.

The Yellow Jackets' lone tournament appearance of the last four years was a one-and-done in 2010 with a team that included future NBA players Derrick Favors and Gani Lawal.

Georgia Tech loses only two players off this season's team, assuming everyone stays. One of Gregory's first calls is likely to be to leading scorer Iman Shumpert, a junior who said Hewitt's firing might have an impact on his future plans. Shumpert, who averaged 17.3 points a game, could be a candidate to enter the NBA draft.

"Right now it's overwhelming," Shumpert said shortly after Hewitt was fired. "I've got to sit down and think about it. Everything is happening a little fast right now."

Associated Press Writer Dan Sewell in Cincinnati contributed to this report.