Alabama Makes Decision on Baseball Coach Amid Betting Scandal
Alabama has started the process of firing baseball coach Brad Bohannon as an investigation into a betting scandal surrounding the program continues, the university announced Thursday morning.
While not addressing the scandal directly, university director of athletics Greg Byrne announced the decision.
“Alabama director of athletics Greg Byrne announced he has initiated the termination process for head baseball coach Brad Bohannon for, among other things, violating the standards, duties, and responsibilities expected of University employees,” the statement began. “Bohannon has been relieved of all duties and Jason Jackson will serve as the interim head coach. There will be no further comment at this time pending an ongoing review.”
The firing of Bohannon comes on the heels of several states halting gambling action on Alabama baseball games after the state of Ohio’s betting commission received information from a certified independent integrity monitor regarding Alabama’s 8–6 loss to LSU on Friday night.
Southeastern Conference commissioner Greg Sankey addressed the matter formally for the first time Wednesday evening.
“We are aware of reports related to the suspension of wagering Alabama baseball games,” Sankey said Wednesday night. “We will continue to monitor available information and any regulatory activity. As many states have acted to legalize sports gambling, we are reminded of the threats gambling may pose on competitive integrity. Together with our member universities, we will continue to emphasize the importance of regulating, overseeing and providing education related to sports gambling activity.”
This is a developing story, check back for updates.