Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Frank Haith Tied to Miami NCAA Allegations

Current Missouri head coach Frank Haith, who was hired this year to replace Arkansas' Mike Anderson, is being investigated by the NCAA over allegations that recently surfaced in a report by Yahoo! Sports.

Nevin Shapiro, who is incarcerated for his role in a $930 Million Ponzi Scheme, told investigators that he supplied $10,000 to secure the commitment of then-high school phenom DeQuan Jones.

In 2008, Jones was considered one of the best wings in his class. He was ranked highly by many scouting services and held multiple scholarship offers from programs nationwide.

He was mostly known for his explosive scoring and ability to finish strong around the rim.

Jones took an unofficial to Miami in 2007 and committed the next day after, according to Yahoo! Rivals.

Shapiro alleged that the transaction was orchestrated by former assistant Jake Morton and went on to say that Haith was aware of the payment.

When notified of the allegations, Frank Haith released a statement saying, "I can confirm that the NCAA has asked to speak with me regarding he time I spent at the University of Miami. I am more than happy to cooperate with the national office on this issue and look forward to a quick resolution."

He continued by saying, "The NCAA has instructed me not to comment further at this time in order to protect the integrity of their review, so I can appreciate your understanding in this matter. The reports questioning my personal interactions with Mr. Shapiro are not an accurate portrayal of my character and per the above I am unable to comment further."

Haith, in his seven seasons at Miami, was never contacted by the NCAA over allegations of breaking NCAA rules. He's always had a reputation for running a clean program.

The University also issued a statement regarding reports on Haith saying, "We are aware of today's Yahoo! Sports story and the University of Missouri acknowledges that the NCAA has requested to speak with Coach Haith regarding his time at the University of Miami.

"As a member of the NCAA and the Big 12 conference, the University of Missouri will cooperate fully throughout this process. per the NCAA's request and guiding bylaws, we are unable to comment further in order to protect the integrity of their review."