Alabama’s men’s basketball administrator, Kobie Baker, resigned Wednesday after an internal review of the men’s basketball program. The review comes after the FBI announced several arrests were being made on Tuesday in an investigation into corruption in college basketball.
According to 24/7 Sports, Baker is the “Staff Member 1” accused in the federal complaint of being involved in a bribery scheme. It is alleged that Baker received money in return for ensuring that a “highly regarded incoming freshman” signs with a particular Atlanta financial adviser after declaring for the NBA draft. The complaint states that “Staff Member 1” met with Rashan Michel, the financial advisor arrested in the sting, and accepted a $5,000 payment in return for setting up a meeting with the incoming freshman’s father.
Alabama began the internal review of its basketball program on Wednesday, following an announcement made by Athletics Director Greg Byrne. In that review, Byrne announced Baker’s resignation.
“Following yesterday’s reports from New York regarding a Federal investigation of intercollegiate athletics, The University of Alabama Department of Athletics immediately initiated an internal review of our men’s basketball operations. As a result, we have accepted the resignation effective today of Kobie Baker, a men’s basketball administrator.
Our review has not identified any NCAA or SEC rules violations nor the involvement of any other coach or staff member. We have notified both of the governing bodies of the actions we have taken. As always, we will continue to be proactive in our compliance efforts.”
Other administrators involved in the scandal include Auburn assistant basketball coach Chuck Pearson, and Louisville head coach Rick Pitino and athletic director Tom Jurich.
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