The first fallout from Tuesday’s announcement that the University of Louisville was involved in a federal bribery investigation came Wednesday morning. During an early afternoon news conference, it was announced that Rick Pitino has been placed on an unpaid administrative leave while athletic director Tom Jurich has been placed on a paid administrative leave until their employment status can be reviewed further.
Interim university president Dr. Greg Postel announced that U of L expected to name an interim coach and interim athletic director in the next few days. He also announced that the player involved in the incident would be withheld from athletic activities until the investigation into the alleged incident has been resolved.
While adding that neither man had been fired in connection to the investigation, Postel did point out that the action was a possible result of the two being placed on administrative leave.
Postel stated that while on leave, neither Pitino or Jurich would be allowed to function in their normal day to day capacities. In looking for an interim coach, Postel added that he would be looking for someone of “integrity.”
As for his reaction when the report surfaced, Postel stated he was more angry than hurt over the tarnish this would place on the university’s image.
As it pertained to the criminal investigation, Postel said he could not comment as the investigation was ongoing.
