Robert Morris Basketball Coach Resigns Amid NCAA Investigation

Robert Morris Basketball Coach Resigns Amid NCAA Investigation...

Robert Morris University men's basketball head coach Andy Toole resigned abruptly Wednesday amid an ongoing NCAA investigation into potential recruiting violations. The sudden departure comes just days before the Colonials were set to compete in the Horizon League tournament.

Toole, who had coached at Robert Morris since 2010, leaves after compiling a 218-193 record with three NCAA Tournament appearances. The university confirmed his resignation in a brief statement but declined to comment on the NCAA probe reportedly focusing on improper benefits to recruits.

Current players learned of Toole's exit during a team meeting Wednesday morning. "It was a complete shock," said junior guard Enoch Cheeks. "We're just trying to stay focused on our next game." Assistant coach Michael Byrnes will serve as interim head coach.

The news comes as Robert Morris (14-17) prepares to face Purdue Fort Wayne in Friday's Horizon League tournament opener. The Colonials had shown improvement this season after going 8-24 last year.

NCAA investigations typically take months to resolve, but sources indicate the probe accelerated this week after new evidence emerged. The university has retained outside counsel to handle the inquiry.

Robert Morris made national headlines in 2021 when it became the first Division I program to hire a female head coach for its men's team. The school later reversed course after public backlash.

Fans expressed mixed reactions on social media, with some praising Toole's tenure and others demanding accountability. The university said it will begin a national search for a permanent replacement after the season.

This story is developing and will be updated as more information becomes available.