BREAKING: Tarleton State University has placed head coach Billy Gillispie on temporary administrative leave following an anonymous complaint, the university announced on Friday. This urgent development raises questions about the nature of the complaint as no details have been disclosed, and a timeline for the investigation remains unclear.
In the interim, associate head coach Glynn Cyprien has stepped in as acting head coach. The university has stated it will not provide further comments on the situation as the investigation unfolds.
This is not Gillispie’s first encounter with allegations regarding his coaching methods. During his tenure at Texas Tech University from 2011 to 2012, he faced serious accusations of player mistreatment, which ultimately led to his resignation in September 2012 due to health concerns. His departure came shortly after the university announced it was investigating claims from players about their treatment under his leadership.
Gillispie’s coaching record has previously drawn scrutiny as well. While with Kentucky, he was dismissed in 2009 amid similar complaints, with the athletic director stating he “wasn’t the right fit for the program.” A settlement of $3 million was reached following his termination.
Currently, Gillispie, aged 65, is in his sixth season at Tarleton State, marking the longest duration of his five Division I head coaching positions, which also include stints at UTEP and Texas A&M. His record at Tarleton State stands at 78-74, with a strong performance this season resulting in a 25-10 record and a CIT appearance in 2023-24.
As the investigation proceeds, the impact on the team and its players remains to be seen. The Tarleton State community is closely monitoring developments, and the outcome could have significant implications for the program’s future.
Fans and followers are urged to stay tuned for updates on this developing story, as the situation continues to unfold.
