The University of Southern Mississippi has released the following statement on the health of head men’s basketball coach Jay Ladner:

Southern Miss men’s basketball head coach Jay Ladner was hospitalized on Tuesday morning in Hattiesburg after suffering a heart related medical emergency. Ladner will step away from the team while he is expected to make a full recovery. 

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Jay and his family as he works to make a full recovery,” said Southern Miss Director of Athletics Jeremy McClain. “We will continue to support our coaches and student-athletes at the highest level while he is away from the team.”

Players and staff members were recently made aware and are preparing to compete in Wednesday’s game against Old Dominion. Associate head coach Juan Cardona will act as head coach during Ladner’s recovery.