The Rutgers Scarlet Knights have suspended head coach Mike Rice three games without pay, in addition to fining him $50,000 for his sideline antics. The Sports News said that the penalty is because of inappropriate language and foul behavior during games, and CBS Sports reports that it wasn't one incident or any specific game that netted the suspension.
Rutgers suspends and fines coach Mike Rice for sideline behavior
Rutgers men’s basketball coach Mike Rice has been suspended for three games and fined by the school
Chris Trotman
The decision was made by the university, not the NCAA. Said Rutgers athletic director Tim Pernetti in a statement:
“Accountability is a vital element of the Rutgers athletics family, and it is imperative our head coaches act and lead in a responsible manner. This was not an easy decision for me to make but absolutely necessary to ensure what is best for our program.”
In a statement of his own, Rice took full responsibility for his actions and apologized to his players, the university and fans.
The 43-year-old head coach is in his third season at Rutgers. He led the Scarlet Knights to 15-17 and 14-18 seasons in his first two years with the program and has them off to a 6-2 start this year. He will be replaced by associate head coach David Cox, who will coach Rutgers Sunday against UAB, Dec. 21 against Howard and Dec. 28 against Rider.
See More:
