Statements From Athletic Director, Men's Basketball Coach

Official statements regarding the Justice Department's basketball investigation from Dave Heeke, the UA's director of athletics, and Sean Miller, head coach for men's basketball.

basketball-400906_1920.jpg

Statement from Dave Heeke, University of Arizona director of athletics:

"As many of you are aware, a member of our men's basketball coaching staff was arrested last week. I was angered and disheartened to learn of the news and its potential impact on the University, our athletics department and this community.

 

"As a proud and passionate supporter of Arizona Athletics, you deserve to know that we are winning with integrity at all times, and the steps announced today by President Robbins will make sure we are. As the leader of the Department of Athletics, I expect all of our student-athletes, coaches and staff to act with integrity and character, and I promise that I, along with our staff, will work tirelessly to ensure this department operates with the highest of ethical standards.

 

"I have admired President Robbins' leadership at the University, and this past week he has exhibited his experience, demeanor and thoughtfulness. We will continue to work closely together as we navigate this issue.

 

"With basketball practice underway, I ask that you join me in supporting Sean Miller, the staff and our student-athletes as they work toward the start of the season.

 

"Earlier today, Sean released a statement and President Robbins shared a message with the community regarding the University's actions to this point. As President Robbins noted in his message, we will be a stronger University and department because of the actions announced today."

Statement from Sean Miller, UA head coach for men's basketball:

"I was devastated to learn last week of the allegations made against Emanuel Richardson. I have expressed to both Dr. Robbins and our athletic director, Dave Heeke, that I fully support the University's efforts to fully investigate these allegations. As the head basketball coach at the University of Arizona, I recognize my responsibility is not only to establish a culture of success on the basketball court and in the classroom, but as important, to promote and reinforce a culture of compliance. To the best of my ability, I have worked to demonstrate this over the past eight years and will continue to do so as we move forward."