West Virginia president, athletic director accept Bob Huggins' resignation in joint statement

West Virginia University president Gordon Gee and athletic director Wren Baker offered appreciation and kind words for men’s basketball coach Bob Huggins as they jointly announced they were accepting his resignation. Huggins was arrested and charged with DUI overnight on Friday and reportedly blew a .210 BAC — more than three times the legal limit in Pennsylvania, where he was stopped.

In the statement from Gee and Baker, there was only a passing reference to Huggins’ arrest. They said that they support his decision to step away from coaching.

“Coach Huggins informed us of his intent to retire and has submitted his letter of resignation, and we have accepted it in light of recent events. We support his decision so that he can focus on his health and family,” the statement said. “On behalf of West Virginia University, we share our appreciation for his service to our university, our community and our state. During his time as a student-athlete, assistant coach and head coach, coach Huggins devoted himself to his players, to our student body, to our fans and alumni and to all West Virginians. His contributions will always be a part of our history.”

WVU President Gordon Gee and Director of Athletics Wren Baker on Bob Huggins’ resignation: pic.twitter.com/QYZX5tOpBV

— Ethan Bock (@ethanbock_) June 18, 2023

The statement from Gee and Baker continued, pointing to next steps.

“In the days ahead, we will focus on support the student-athletes in our men’s basketball program and solidifying leadership for our program,” the statement said.

Huggins announced his resignation in a separate statement

After a legendary career in coaching, Huggins will be stepping away from college basketball in unfortunate circumstances.

“Today, I have submitted a letter to President Gordon Gee and Vice President and Director of Athletics Wren Baker informing them of my resignation and intention to retire as the head men’s basketball coach at West Virginia effective immediately,” Huggins said in the statement.

He continued: My recent actions do not represent the value of the University or the leadership expected in this role. While I have always tried to represent our University with honor, I have let all of you — and myself — down. I am solely responsible for my conduct and sincerely apologize to the University community — particularly to the student-athletes, coaches, and staff in our program. I must do better and I plan to spend the next few months focused on my health and my family so that I can be the person they deserve.

“Thank you to everyone who has supported our program over the years. It has meant more to me and my family than you could ever know.”