Nov. 23, 2012 — Morehead State University announced Friday that Men's Head Basketball Coach Sean Woods would be suspended for Monday night’s game as a result of his courtside conduct during the MSU-UK game on Wednesday night.
MSU Athletics Director Brian Hutchinson said in a press release:
“We believe Coach Woods, while remorseful, is not above reproach. Therefore, he will be suspended for Monday night’s game against Norfolk State. This will allow Coach Woods to consider his action and behavior, and allow him time to contemplate the appropriate way to conduct himself with his players and on the sideline."
The first-year coach issued a statement quoted in the release:
“My behavior during Wednesday night’s game was inappropriate and unacceptable. I am truly sorry. I value the opportunity I have been given as the head men’s basketball coach at Morehead State. I am passionate about the young men on our team and the opportunities we have together. I care for them deeply.”
Woods continued:
"I can assure our student-athletes, university community, alumni and fans that anything approaching this type of situation will not happen again.”
The suspension was the result of a sideline confrontation between Woods and one of his players, point guard Devon Atkinson, after Atkinson fouled out with 5:51 to play.
Hutchinson described the game in Rupp Arena as "hotly contested and emotionally charged." UK rallied in the second half to win, 81-70. He said that the school remains excited about its choice of Woods as head coach.
“As we move beyond this incident, our focus will be on the continued development of each student-athlete and of a team capable of contending for an Ohio Valley Conference championship,” Hutchinson said. “This will be accomplished in an environment characterized by hard work, constructive criticism and mutual respect."
An MSU spokesperson said neither the coach nor the institution would have further comment on the matter.
