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Cincinnati places head basketball coach on suspension as external review of program continues
Published:
Cincinnati head men’s basketball coach John Brannen has been suspended effective immediately, according to a report from Justin Williams of The Athletic.
The University of Cincinnati opened an investigation into the program after six players entered their names in the NCAA transfer portal over the span of just a few days. There was reportedly a “rift” between Brannen and players on the team.
Per the report, Brannen will be on suspension until the Cincinnati external review into the program is complete. There is no timeline on when it could be concluded.
BREAKING: University of Cincinnati suspends #Bearcats MBB coach John Brannen effective immediately, sources tell @TheAthletic.
Suspension lasts until UC external review is complete. It is believed the review is exploring potential of for-cause firing. No timeline on UC's review.
— Justin Williams (@Williams_Justin) April 3, 2021
Brannen just completed his second season with the Bearcats.
“The University always put the welfare of its student-athletes first,” said John Cunningham, the athletics director at UC. “We feel this is an essential step to ensure that all of our athletic programs meet the highest standards.”
Cincinnati ended the 2020-21 season with a 12-11 record. He is 32-20 in two seasons with the Bearcats.
Dustin grew up in the heart of Big Ten country and has been in sports media since 2010. He has been covering Big Ten football since 2014. You can follow him on Twitter: @SchutteCFB