Hawaii Confirms NCAA Investigation
Hawaii athletic director Ben Jay has confirmed that the Hawaii athletics program is under investigation by the NCAA:
Amid current media speculation, the University of Hawaii at Mānoa Department of Athletics acknowledges that there is an ongoing NCAA investigation of potential rules violations. As a member institution of the NCAA, we have an obligation to monitor and control our athletics program, a duty to report all instances of noncompliance with NCAA rules and cooperate fully with and assist the NCAA enforcement staff. Our responsibility also requires that our institutional representatives and student–athletes protect the integrity of the investigation. Under NCAA enforcement rules, a failure to cooperate could lead to an independent allegation and/or be considered by the NCAA as a factor when determining potential penalties.
That media speculation has centered around possible violations in the men’s basketball program involving recruitment of a transfer athlete. Hawaii News Now is also reported that an assistant coach was suspended as a self-imposed punishment.
Back in March Brian McInnis of the Honolulu Star-Advertiser reported that the NCAA would be on campus to review records that month. That would mean Hawaii has received a notice of inquiry from the NCAA. But it could be a while still before a notice of allegations is sent, if the investigation finds that one is warranted.