This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This archival content was originally written for and published on KPCC.org. Keep in mind that links and images may no longer work — and references may be outdated.
USC basketball coach Tim Floyd resigns
Head coach of the USC Trojans, Tim Floyd, watches game action against the UCLA Bruins in the Pacific Life Pac-10 Men's Basketball Tournament at the Staples Center on March 13, 2009 in Los Angeles, California.
(
Harry How/Getty Images
)
Listen
USC basketball coach Tim Floyd resigns
Veteran college basketball coach Tim Floyd has resigned from his position at the University of Southern California. KPCC’s Molly Peterson says a Mississippi paper broke news of the Hattiesburg native’s decision today.
Floyd reportedly resigned by writing to USC’s athletic director that he could no longer give his full enthusiasm to the job. During the four seasons of his tenure, Floyd revived USC’s basketball program. The team made the sweet 16 at the NCAA tournament last year.
Floyd did that with some high-profile recruiting. Rapper Lil’ Romeo got a full ride. But college authorities have been investigating Floyd and USC after allegations of improper financial dealings related to former star O.J. Mayo surfaced. Mayo’s a point guard who showed up on Floyd’s doorstep despite being heavily recruited by better programs; he’s since left USC.
Last month, YahooSports.com reported that Floyd made a cash payment to a sports agent’s associate who had been close to Mayo. If true, that payment could violate college rules.
USC and Floyd have not commented about the alleged recruiting violations. Floyd had considered coaching in Arizona and in Memphis. But this spring he said he planned to finish out his contract at USC.
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
