On Saturday, Cincinnati placed head coach John Brannen on paid administrative leave while the school investigates the circumstances around six players transferring in March.
Brannen’s attorney says the school is mishandling its investigation:
Brennan’s attorney, Tom Mars, told ESPN in a statement that Cincinnati is mishandling its investigation.
“It’s been my experience that collegiate ADs are experts at mishandling internal investigations, and this case is no exception,” Mars said. “You don’t have to take my word for it. I’m in possession of a communication from within the UC Athletics Department describing the mishandling of this internal investigation in much more descriptive terms.
“There’s no basis for Coach Brannen to have been placed on administrative leave — much less terminated for cause.”
Mars added that Brannen would deserve his $5.25 million buyout if athletic director John Cunningham decides to fire him, threatening a lawsuit if the school tries to fire Brannen with cause.
“I’m hopeful, however, that AD Cunningham will wrap up the investigation quickly and reinstate Coach Brannen so that he can continue the great job he’s done for Cincinnati basketball,” Mars said in his statement.
Statement from UC on the suspension of head basketball coach John Brannen #Bearcats pic.twitter.com/u4s70D7JZd
— Chad Brendel (@ChadBrendel) April 3, 2021
