Rick Pitino, Tom Jurich, Bobby Petrino, and James Ramsey Fitted

Note From President Ramsey

Mark BlankenbakerFebruary 5, 2016

UofL Students, Faculty, and Staff:

When the University first learned of allegations against our men’s basketball program, I promised a complete and thorough review of the accusations. I immediately activated the University of Louisville Investigative Committee to receive regular updates from our joint investigation with the NCAA.

Yesterday, as chair of the committee, I received an update on the investigation’s progress. Based upon this information, I determined that it was reasonable to conclude that significant violations had occurred in the men’s basketball program in the past.

After consulting with Director of Athletics Tom Jurich, we made the decision to withhold the men’s basketball program from all conference and NCAA postseason competition following the 2015-16 men’s basketball season. I recognize that this is a significant penalty for our program and will be a disappointment to our student athletes and to many in the UofL family.

While this was a difficult decision, it was made in the best interest of our University community, and I believe we will be stronger because of it.

Until this investigation is concluded, we will not be able to speak publicly about its findings, even if that means we’re unable to defend ourselves against inaccurate accusations. I hope you will reserve judgment until we can share the facts.

In the meantime, our University continues its daily focus of educational excellence and service to our community.

Finally, I continue to support Tom Jurich, Coach Pitino and the outstanding student-athletes in our men’s basketball program.

– President Jim Ramsey