Rutgers basketball coach Mike Rice terminated
Rutgers University announced Wednesday morning the termination of basketball coach Mike Rice, following the release of a video that depicts Rice’s physical aggression toward players and his use of homophobic slurs.
“Yesterday, I personally reviewed the video evidence, which shows a chronic and pervasive pattern of disturbing behavior,” reads a statement from President Robert Barchi.
“I have now reached the conclusion that Coach Rice cannot continue to serve effectively in a position that demands the highest levels of leadership, responsibility and public accountability. He cannot continue to coach at Rutgers University.”
Barchi initially hired an independent investigator to review the matter, and agreed with Athletic Director Tim Pernetti that Rice should be suspended, penalized with fines, lose his salary and undergo anger management counseling.
WHYY/NewsWorks reporter Emma Jacobs will have more on this story as it develops.
WHYY is your source for fact-based, in-depth journalism and information. As a nonprofit organization, we rely on financial support from readers like you. Please give today.