NCAA hands down suspension to UConn basketball coach

University of Connecticut coach Jim Calhoun was cited by the NCAA for failing to create an atmosphere of compliance in the basketball program. The punishment includes being suspended for three Big East games next season.

The citation stems from a booster providing improper benefits to a former player, a recruiting violation, during Jim Calhoun's tenure as head coach. Neither the player nor the booster were named in the NCAA's report. 

UConn will also face scholarship reductions for three academic years, recruiting restrictions and three years' probation. The school must also permanently disassociate from the booster.

"We think the penalty is appropriate," said Dennis Thomas, chairman of the Committee on Infractions. "The head coach should be aware, but, also in the same frame, the head coach obviously cannot be aware of everything that goes on within the program. However, the head coach bears that responsibility."

"I am very disappointed with the NCAA's decision in this case," Calhoun said.

Thomas said Calhoun will serve the suspension next year because UConn could appeal the decision. Calhoun's attorney, Scott Tompsett, said a decision on whether Calhoun appeals will be made within the next two weeks.

Calhoun has led UConn to two national championships and has won 575 games in his 24 years as head coach. He was elected to the Dr. James Naismith National Basketball Hall of Fame in 2005 and named the 1990 National Coach of the Year.