ATHLETICS

NCAA Sends Letter of Allegations

The University of Missouri-Columbia and the National Collegiate Athletic Association have taken the next step in their ongoing, joint inquiry into the MU men’s basketball program.

The NCAA sent a notice of allegations to Chancellor Richard Wallace dated Friday, May 7, 2004. The University will respond to the NCAA letter by July 1. The response will identify those allegations with which University and NCAA officials agree and those disputed by University personnel. Allegations include topics such as recruitment, extra benefits to student athletes, program monitoring, transportation and conduct.

University officials have met jointly with representatives of the NCAA since last summer to conduct interviews and gather information upon which to base an evaluation of issues raised by the NCAA inquiry.

In making the announcement regarding the receipt of the notice of allegations, Wallace expressed his appreciation for the high level of cooperation between NCAA and University representatives during the joint investigation. “We at MU are clearly focused on upholding the highest standards in our academic and athletic programs and that is what this process is all about,” Wallace said.

“As a faculty member I am particularly pleased that allegations regarding the academic integrity of the institution have been dismissed,” said Michael Devaney, an MU engineering professor who was appointed by UM System President Elson S. Floyd to participate in the joint inquiry.

“This is certainly a significant step in what has been a very exhaustive process by everyone involved,” said MU Athletic Director Mike Alden. “The collaborative nature of the review between our team and the NCAA staff has been exemplary. It is significant to note that no issues concerning institutional control were included in the notice of allegations.”

The NCAA Infractions Committee will meet August 13-15 and will consider the University’s response at that time. University officials continue to be bound by NCAA confidentiality requirements and are unable to comment on specific allegations at this time.

“As I have acknowledged numerous times since this inquiry began, I realize mistakes have been made in the operations of our basketball program and I take full responsibility,” Men’s Head Basketball Coach Quin Snyder said. “When I first became aware of the problems, we conducted a comprehensive review of our program. Since last December, we have proactively improved our methods of operation. At the conclusion of this entire process, when I can discuss the allegations, I will outline how we have improved and enhanced the Missouri basketball program.”

President Elson Floyd said University officials will continue to cooperate fully with the NCAA and expressed hope that the process can be completed as soon as possible.

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Last Update: November 15, 2007