Rick Pitino issues statement regarding Louisville FBI investigation

Shortly after it was revealed Louisville was also under FBI investigation, head coach Rick Pitino issued a statement through his attorney.

We’ve seen some scandals in the history of college sports, but one of the biggest ones rocked the college basketball world on Tuesday. It was revealed that the FBI had been investigating a number of programs regarding corruption, and after the initial news release, news broke that the Louisville Cardinals were one of the programs staring at an investigation from the FBI.

Naturally, with Louisville already in some hot water over the escorts scandal, questions began to arise regarding the future of head basketball coach Rick Pitino. With these new accusations, many expect this to be the unceremonious end of the road for the legendary coach.

We don’t know for 100 percent certainty yet whether or not Pitino will be out as coach, but through his attorney on Tuesday evening, he released the following statement which proclaims the whole thing comes as a complete shock to him.

Of course, a majority of the college basketball outside the city of Louisville doesn’t believe a word of this statement, but everyone is entitled to their right of being innocent until proven guilty.

A big part as to why Louisville is being investigated allegedly surrounds the recruitment of 5-star prospect Brian Bowen. Set to be a freshman at Louisville this year, it’s alleged that a representative for Adidas wanted to pay the family $100,000 for his services once he goes pro and is available to sign with an apparel company. Bowen was not specifically named in anything, but he does fit the description as “Player-10” in the affidavit that was filed.

Because of the previously mentioned escort scandal, Pitino will already serve a five-game ACC suspension this coming season once conference play starts. If he’s found to be guilty of anything here that dropped on Tuesday, then would definitely spell the end of his historic career.