Posted on 03/07/2002 9:32:28 AM PST by Dawgsquat
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. -- Arkansas told Nolan Richardson's lawyer the school replaced him because it lost confidence in the coach's ability, according to correspondence released Wednesday.
Chancellor John White and athletic director Frank Broyles believed Richardson's remark that "they can pay me off and I'll be on my way" would upset fans and hurt the program, lawyer Fred Harrison wrote to Richardson lawyer John Walker.
Since White announced Friday that Richardson was out, Arkansas had offered no explanation beyond citing a no-excuses-necessary clause under the "Termination at Convenience of the University" section of Richardson's seven-year, $1.03 million-a-year contract.
Under a request made under the state Freedom of Information Act, the university provided copies of correspondence among the parties to The Associated Press.
Harrison said Richardson was released after saying privately and publicly that he wanted the school to buy out his contract under its terms of $500,000 for its six remaining years.
Harrison also said the coach was not entitled to a reason under provisions of the contract, but he would give him one anyway - and echoed previous statements that Richardson asked to have his contract terminated despite public statements that he wanted to stay as coach.
"Chancellor White and Coach Broyles concluded that the comments by Coach Richardson that he could be bought out of his contract immediately indicated a lack of his confidence in the basketball program and leadership for it," Harrison wrote. "They also believed these comments to have a negative impact on fan support and other aspects of the program."
Richardson intends to ask Arkansas system president Alan Sugg to review White's decision. Although White initially gave Richardson a deadline of noon Monday, Harrison on Wednesday asked Walker to make his case by the close of business Friday.
"Dr. Sugg will then review the termination and may also wish to meet privately with Coach Richardson," Harrison said.
An appeal to Sugg was seen as a prerequisite for possible legal action by Richardson against the university. Richardson said last Thursday it was his intent to remain at Arkansas despite his remark five days earlier.
The termination section of Richardson's contract says White had to consult with Sugg and Broyles before the buyout could take place. By taking the money, Richardson would release the school and its officials from "any liability of any nature whatsoever" involving his tenure and his departure, the contract says.
Walker characterized Richardson's departure as a firing.
Assistant Mike Anderson coached the Razorbacks in a victory over Vanderbilt on Saturday and will be in charge during the Southeastern Conference tournament this week. Arkansas plays Tennessee on Thursday.
Oh...so this is about basketball?...(It's not midnite basketball, is it?)
FMCDH
The NCAA uses a six year standard for the graduation rate.
What a service was done for these student athletes.
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