The University of Louisville has decided to ban the men’s basketball program from all conference and NCAA postseason competition following the 2015-16 season. University President James Ramsey released the following statement on the matter:
When the University first learned of allegations against our men’s basketball program, it initiated the University’s existing processes to undertake a complete and thorough review of information concerning potential violations of NCAA legislation. This included hiring Chuck Smrt of the Compliance Group who has extensive experience in NCAA inquiries. I also activated the University of Louisville Investigative Committee, which includes three faculty members. Soon thereafter, the institution and the NCAA began a joint inquiry. The committee and I were provided regular updates on its progress.
Yesterday, as chair of the investigative committee, I received the most recent update. Based upon the available information gathered by the NCAA Enforcement Staff and the University of Louisville, I determined that it was reasonable to conclude violations had occurred in the men’s basketball program in the past.
After consulting with Director of Athletics Tom Jurich, we made the decision to withhold the men’s basketball program from all conference and NCAA postseason competition following the 2015-16 men’s basketball season. I recognize that this is a significant penalty for our program and will be a disappointment to our student athletes and to many in the UofL family—our students, faculty, staff, alumni, friends and our fans.
The University is continuing to cooperate with the NCAA on the resolution of this matter and will evaluate the information as the inquiry continues.
While this was a difficult decision, it was made in the best interest of our University community. We will be able to provide additional information surrounding the inquiry and this decision at its conclusion. Given the ongoing inquiry, and in accordance with NCAA bylaws, we cannot comment further at this time.
I want to assure our students, faculty and staff that we remain focused on our educational mission and state mandate. We continue to provide our students the very best learning environment that allows for them to be successful. We remain focused on our research programs and service to our community.
Finally, I continue to support Tom Jurich, Coach Pitino and the outstanding student-athletes in our men’s basketball program.
