University of Memphis Says It Will Appeal NCAA Ruling

For release: August 20, 2009
For press information, contact Curt Guenther, 901/678-2843

Forfeiture of a record 38-win season in 2007-08 and a second place in that season’s Final Four tournament, repayment of money made from its participation in the tournament, and three years’ probation are the conditions handed down to the University of Memphis men’s basketball program by the National Collegiate Athletics Association today.

After the NCAA made its findings public this afternoon, the University responded with an announcement of its intention to appeal the NCAA’s action, saying that the ruling was too extreme, given the nature of the charges made against the U of M.  The University has 15 days to file a Notice of Appeal with the NCAA, and then 30 days to file a written appeal, laying out reasons the University believes the penalty is excessive.

Dr. Shirley Raines, president of the University of Memphis, said the University respects the NCAA process, but she added, “...we disagree with the decision to invalidate the ’07-’08 men’s basketball season, including the NCAA tournament and our championship game appearance.  We will appeal their decision.”

Raines pointedly disagreed with the NCAA’s decision regarding a student athlete’s SAT test score, saying of the University, “We did our due diligence.”

She said the University had followed all the rules regarding player eligibility and that the NCAA Eligibility Center itself, on two separate occasions, had cleared the student to play.  “We think the penalty is unfair,” Raines said.

The U of M was also cited for allegations of travel irregularities, allowing the brother of a player to travel at University expense.  “We made an honest mistake,” Raines said.  “We agree with the facts, but not the penalty.” 

She and U of M Athletics Director R.C. Johnson both said the University has made changes to its policies and procedures regarding internal audits, which should prevent such oversights in the future.

Raines also stressed that the NCAA ruling has no effect on the University’s upcoming basketball season or any other future seasons.  “We will be on television, we will play in post-season tournaments, and we expect our team will be exciting and successful,” she said.

Regarding NCAA allegations of improper conduct by a golf coach, the president said that the University had already taken steps to clear that matter, self-imposing penalties that were accepted as sufficient by the NCAA infractions committee.  “We have a new, highly regarded coach, and our program has a great future,” she said.

Raines and Johnson both praised the men’s basketball team and the entire athletics program at the University.  “I want them all to know how proud we are of each of them,” she said.  “And, I also want to thank our fans, who have been so supportive of the University.”