THE SIDELINES : NCAA Probing Miami of Ohio

The NCAA is investigating an allegation that Miami University basketball Coach Jerry Peirson gave one of his players an A in a course even though the student failed to attend class or perform class work.

Miami of Ohio announced the investigation today, saying the incident is alleged to have occurred during the fall semester of the 1988-89 school year, when Peirson was teaching a physical education course titled Basketball Theory.

Peirson, 46, whose Miami teams have compiled a 94-80 record in his six seasons as coach, was unavailable for comment today.

The NCAA started the investigation after receiving an anonymous tip, school officials said.

The university declined to identify the student-athlete involved. University spokesman Richard Little said the player is no longer a Miami student and has not graduated.