Moscow, ID -- (Sports Network) - The University of Idaho fired men's basketball George Pfeifer on Tuesday.

The Vandals have gone 12-48 in two seasons under Pfeifer, including an 8-21 mark this season, which ended in a loss in the quarterfinals of the Western Athletic Conference.

"George improved the competitiveness of the program and I commend him for his effort," Spear said. "However, in evaluating all aspects of the program and its future, the timing is right to make a change."

Pfiefer had one year left on his original three-year contract. A search is underway for his replacement.