It took a while, and not many can figure out why, but the LSU Tigers basketball program finally announced the suspension of head coach Will Wade amid the FBI probe when it comes to his recruiting. The suspension is "indefinitely" for Wade, who was heard in wiretapped calls from the FBI sounding frustrated for not being able to close what was a "strong-ass offer" for a recruit. LSU president F. King Alexander and Athletic Director Joe Alleva both released statements on behalf of the school, expressing their concern and the disappointment in Wade. The coach himself also released a statement saying that "facts are yet to come out," and expressing his commitment. to the players. He was unwilling to go further in to detail on the situation, but did say that the reports "do not begin to tell the full story."
Wade was understanding as to why the school had to suspend him, which was a move that was supported by SEC commissioner Greg Sankey. The calls were said to be from 2017, as the FBI was already monitoring the recruit's cell phone in the investigation into college basketball corruption. Other reports say that Wade was also unhappy with the handling of then-recruit, Javonte Smart, who is now a member of the Tigers. There has not been any word on if Smart will sit on Saturday night when the Tigers play host to Vanderbilt in their regular season finale.
The Tigers are ranked 10th in the current AP Polls with a record of 25-5, and they are tied for first in the SEC with a record of 15-2. Yahoo Sports was first to report the punishment for Wade, who says he's "sick and tired" of talking about the situation involving Smart. The coach was even heard saying that the player would be paid more than "the rookie minimum." And now, Wade may not be paid at all after this investigation, which could lead to his dismissal from the program.
Wade was understanding as to why the school had to suspend him, which was a move that was supported by SEC commissioner Greg Sankey. The calls were said to be from 2017, as the FBI was already monitoring the recruit's cell phone in the investigation into college basketball corruption. Other reports say that Wade was also unhappy with the handling of then-recruit, Javonte Smart, who is now a member of the Tigers. There has not been any word on if Smart will sit on Saturday night when the Tigers play host to Vanderbilt in their regular season finale.
The Tigers are ranked 10th in the current AP Polls with a record of 25-5, and they are tied for first in the SEC with a record of 15-2. Yahoo Sports was first to report the punishment for Wade, who says he's "sick and tired" of talking about the situation involving Smart. The coach was even heard saying that the player would be paid more than "the rookie minimum." And now, Wade may not be paid at all after this investigation, which could lead to his dismissal from the program.
