Morehead State coach resigns

Sean Woods resigned Thursday as Morehead State’s coach following an independent investigation into allegations by two players that Woods assaulted them.

His resignation comes two days after he was charged with misdemeanor battery in Indiana.

Athletic director Brian Hutchinson announced Woods’ resignation after the coach went 77-65 in four-plus seasons with the Eagles, including 2-2 this fall. Woods had been suspended since Nov. 22 and Morehead State began investigating unspecified “complaints received” about him. Police in Evansville, Ind., on Tuesday filed the battery charge against Woods. A hearing has been set for Feb. 9.

Two players stated in an affidavit that they had altercations with Woods during a Nov. 19 game at the University of Evansville.

Sophomore Malik Maitland said the coach backhanded him in the chest and junior Soufiyane Diakite said Woods shoved him twice when the Eagles played last month in Evansville, Ind.

Woods’ resignation comes just over four years after Morehead State suspended him one game for berating player Devon Atkinson on the bench and appearing to make contact with him during a loss at Kentucky.

Berry status in doubt: It’s unclear whether point guard Joel Berry II will return from an ankle injury for seventh-ranked North Carolina’s weekend game against No. 6 Kentucky.

Berry has missed the last two games after spraining his left ankle. Coach Roy Williams said Berry participated in some light shooting and running in recent days amid an altered team schedule due to semester exams, while Williams has been traveling for recruiting.

“I am not optimistic at all, but I’m not pessimistic,” Williams said. “I haven’t seen him. And I have no opinion.”

Layups: Virginia announced plans to retire Malcolm Brogdon’s No. 15 jersey Feb. 20. … Indiana forward OG Anunoby (ankle) will return Saturday against Butler, ESPN reported.