The NCAA is currently looking into potential recruiting violations within Michigan State’s football program, a situation dating back to when Mel Tucker was the head coach. This was confirmed by the university on Thursday.
University President Kevin Guskiewicz initially broke the news in an interview with the Detroit News. He mentioned he has scheduled a meeting with the NCAA next week to discuss the matter further.
An athletics department spokesperson commented, “Michigan State athletics is fully cooperating with the NCAA’s review of a potential issue concerning our football program under the former coaching staff, and we will continue this cooperation throughout the process.” Due to NCAA regulations, the university is unable to disclose any more information at this time.
Details about the exact nature of the alleged violations remain unspecified.
Tucker was dismissed for cause back in September 2023 following allegations of sexual harassment made by Brenda Tracy, a recognized rape survivor and advocate who was affiliated with the program. During the remainder of the 2023 season, Harlon Barnett stepped in as interim head coach.
Last summer, Tucker filed a lawsuit against MSU, claiming wrongful termination, and that legal battle is still playing out. Meanwhile, Tracy has also taken legal action against Tucker for defamation. However, Tucker has managed to avoid being served with the legal papers. Just last month, a local court decided that if Tucker does not respond soon, he will lose the case by default.
With regard to these possible NCAA recruiting violations, Guskiewicz expressed in his conversation with the Detroit News that MSU is advocating for the current program and staff not to be penalized for these allegations. Jonathan Smith, the current head coach, is preparing for his second season. Last fall, the Spartans ended up with a 5-7 record.
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