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Statement from Dr. Welty regarding post-season ban

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I have notified the National Collegiate Athletic Association that I am imposing a ban on post-season play on the men's basketball program this year as the result of finding instances of academic fraud involving former basketball players. I do this with great regret and sadness, since this severe action will affect student athletes, staff and coaches who were utterly unconnected to the problem.

While I regret having to take an action that is so hurtful to our current team, it is consistent with NCAA infractions case precedent and I believe it is in the best long-term interest of the basketball program and the university. Doing it now puts our program in the best possible position to enter next year with a clean slate as we begin our first season in the Save Mart Center. Most importantly, it demonstrates to the NCAA that we are dealing with this problem in the most serious manner.

It is imperative that this institution guarantee its academic integrity. I simply will not tolerate academic misconduct in any form. The instances of academic fraud were confirmed as part of the joint investigation by the university and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). Allegations had been made that some players had assistance in completing writing assignments by an individual who was paid to complete those assignments. The substance of those allegations was reported in the Fresno Bee.

A careful and complete investigation by the university and the NCAA substantiated most of those allegations.

After years of investigation and review by both the NCAA and the university, I trust this severe action will dispel any lingering doubts about the basketball program. I, along with the Athletic Director, Scott Johnson, am committed to ensuring that the university and the athletic department will be vigilant so that such problems never reoccur.

The self-imposed sanctions on our Athletic program that I announced last December remain in place. Also, improvements in our compliance monitoring program that I required at that time either have been achieved, or will be completed as outlined in my statement at that time.

In addition, I have communicated to Academic Senate Chair, Bill Fasse, that I want the advice of the Athletic Council and Senate leadership with regard to services provided by our student athlete academic services and their organizational reporting responsibility. We will address this issue before the end of the spring semester.

Finally, as we address changes within the University I hope the State of California will act to make it a criminal offense for agents and runners who attempt to lure student-athletes through money and other benefits.

Back to University Journal, 4/03 Issue