Rutgers coach Mike Rice’s ‘inappropriate behavior’ included throwing basketballs at players’ heads

News broke Thursday that Rutgers was suspending basketball coach Mike Rice three games and fining him $50,000 for “inappropriate behavior.”

The fine and suspension seemed a little heavy for something as common as dropping a few too many f bombs during games, so people instantly wondered whether or not there was something more going on here.

Those suspicions were quickly confirmed when an investigation by the Newark Star-Ledger revealed Rice was involved in an incident during his first or second season where he was throwing basketballs at players’ heads during practice. Video evidence of the incident(s) was apparently presented to Rice.

“I sincerely apologize to our players, both past and present,” Rice said in a statement released by the university. “To our incredible assistant coaches and staff; to President (Robert) Barchi; the Board of Governors and Director of Athletics Tim Pernetti for their belief in me. ... My commitment to becoming a better man and coach is only matched by my passion to make Rutgers basketball a great source of pride for the community.”

This might not be the end of Rice’s problems, however. Former NBA player Eric Murdock, who was RU’s director of player development until he was fired last summer, has promised to release tapes of Rice mistreating players if not adequately compensated by the university.