University Announces Self-Imposed Sanctions on Men's Basketball Program

COLUMBUS - Ohio State President Karen A. Holbrook and Director of Athletics Andy Geiger announced today that the University has implemented self-imposed sanctions on its men's basketball program for violations of NCAA rules.

"We believe, based upon the information that we have gathered to date, that there were violations of NCAA rules," said Ohio State Director of Athletics Andy Geiger. "And we believe there is a need for immediate responsive action on our part."

The self-imposed sanctions for the men's basketball program include:
*The dismissal of the head men's basketball coach - which occurred on June 8, 2004;
*A one-year ban on NCAA and NIT post-season competition following the 2004-05 season.

"Today's action reflects the forthrightness and seriousness with which the University has dealt with this matter from the beginning. Our investigation has raised the need for further institutional action," said President Holbrook.

The University, along with the NCAA, has been conducting an exhaustive investigation since first learning of possible violations, and that investigation is continuing.

Geiger said the self-imposed sanctions are based in part on case precedents of other NCAA member institutions who have been cited for rules infractions, and were made in consultation with legal counsel.

"We have talked to numerous people and we have had lengthy discussions internally," said Geiger. "We believe that the sanctions we have identified are appropriate at this stage of the investigation. It is important to remember that this team and this coaching staff need to move forward."

Recognizing Geiger as "among the most respected athletic directors in the country," President Holbrook added, "Ohio State remains fully committed to maintaining an academically sound, ethical, and successful intercollegiate athletics program in all 35 sports serving 1,000 student-athletes, our student body, alumni, fans and friends of the University. Ohio State has a proud tradition of intercollegiate athletics and a position of leadership in the Big Ten and the NCAA and thus we are disappointed that we are here today to announce the action we feel we must take."

See the statement of President Karen A. Holbrook.

Read the transcript of the news conference.

Read the release: Ohio State adds one year to Thad Matta\'s contract