Big Ten Wants Davis Suspended

The Big Ten asked Indiana to suspend Coach Mike Davis for his outburst at the end of Saturday’s game against Kentucky.

The university said it will respond to the request Friday, the deadline set by the conference.

The Big Ten notified Indiana by letter Monday that it expected the school to impose sanctions. Interim Athletic Director Terry Clapacs said it was implied that if Indiana did not penalize Davis the conference would.

The Big Ten would not confirm the length of a possible suspension or the nature of a reprimand.

Clapacs said Tuesday he has spoken with Davis and will do so again before making a decision. Indiana’s next game is Saturday at Temple.

“What I did was wrong, and I’ll support Terry Clapacs and our administration with whatever they think is right,” Davis told the Indianapolis Star.

Davis’ tirade came near the end of Indiana’s 70-64 loss to Kentucky in Louisville on Saturday. With 2.6 seconds left and Indiana trailing, 65-64, Hoosier guard Bracy Wright drove for a layup and the ball hit the side of the backboard. Davis wanted a foul but none was called.

Davis ran on the court in protest, waving his arms at official Bert Smith. He drew two technical fouls and was ejected before Keith Bogans made five of six free throws to seal the win.

During his postgame news conference, Davis was apologetic, saying his actions cost his team the game. He also apologized to his players and the fans.

Clapacs was supportive of Davis afterward, and he again spoke highly of him Tuesday.

“He’s a terrific coach and a terrific man, and the Kentucky game means a lot to him,” Clapacs said. “Clearly, he coaches with passion.”

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North Carolina will report a secondary recruiting violation to the NCAA after an assistant basketball coach spoke to a high school player this month.

North Carolina Coach Matt Doherty said his staff would be careful not to repeat the mistake, one that is not likely to result in a serious penalty.

Assistant Fred Quartlebaum spoke briefly to Justin Bohlander of Winston-Salem Reynolds after the recruit’s Dec. 14 game. The conversation came during a period in which contact with players is not allowed.