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Judge Weighing Whether To Release Allegations Against UA Basketball

Published: Thursday, February 18, 2021 - 5:47am
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A Maricopa County Superior Court judge is considering whether to order the University of Arizona to release NCAA allegations against its men's basketball program.

ESPN has sued for access to the list that stems from the probe of a bribery scandal involving a former UA assistant basketball coach.

A pair of the school’s top athletic officials testified at a hearing Wednesday.

The UA case is going through a new process that can lead to more investigation. Athletic Director Dave Heeke testified that releasing the accusations now could disrupt the review. 

“And again I think there is great potential for damage to the reputation of the University of Arizona because of these unproven allegations,” he said.

ESPN’s lawyer said during closing arguments that protecting reputation is not a legal basis for refusing to provide a public record.

UA’s expert on NCAA compliance also testified during the court hearing. Associate Athletic Director Brent Blaylock said breaking confidentiality rules could ultimately raise the level of a violation.

“Which means across the board it would be a stiffer penalty for the institution, the involved individuals and the involved programs,” he said.  

ESPN’s lawyer argued that the UA can’t voluntarily be part of the NCAA and then say the organization’s rules outweigh Arizona public records law.

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