UNLV President Denies Tark Is Out

Robert Maxson, Nevada Las Vegas president, denied reports that he wants to oust basketball Coach Jerry Tarkanian in the wake of the Runnin’ Rebels’ loss in the Final Four and NCAA sanctions.

The stories began appearing after UNLV, unbeaten in 45 games and a heavy favorite to repeat as national champion, lost to Duke in Saturday’s semifinals.

The National reported that friends of Tarkanian have said Maxson was out to get him in an ongoing power struggle.

“The National article is absolutely ridiculous,” Maxson said. “I think it’s insulting, but probably most important, it’s totally inaccurate. To say that to lose a game to Duke would be the catalyst to get rid of a coach, in the first place is insulting to me and it’s insulting to Coach Tarkanian.”

Maxson appeared less certain on a national TV show Sunday. When asked if Tarkanian would be staying as coach, Maxson said that was a personnel matter.

Meanwhile, Tarkanian said: “I’m definitely planning on staying. I have no intention of leaving. However, if I have an outstanding offer from the right professional team, I’d have to consider it.”