Patsos resigns amid investigation

By Tim Reynolds

Siena coach Jimmy Patsos resigned Friday, weeks after the college opened what has become a wideranging investigation that unearthed allegations of problems ranging from abusive conduct to financial improprieties within the program.

The move came more than a month after the end of an 8-24 season that matched Siena’s third-worst since the school in Loudonville, New York, moved to the Division I level in 1976. Patsos still had the backing of athletic director John D’Argenio after the season and was expected to return, until the college opened its probe when a manager with obsessive-compulsive disorder came forward with allegations of verbal abuse.

Some of the issues found during the investigation — which is still ongoing, and has included multiple interview sessions with players and others around the program — may potentially rise to the level of NCAA violations.

“The program has consistently represented the college with class, honor, and integrity,” Brother Edward Coughlin, Siena’s president, said in a release. “Siena’s founding Franciscan tradition calls upon us to honor the fundamental dignity of every person. Our core values demand compassion and help shape a community where all should feel welcomed, respected, and cherished.

“As we look forward to a new chapter in Siena men’s basketball, our shared commitment to upholding these ideals will continue to guide us.”

Siena said a nationwide search to find a new coach will begin immediately. For now, the status of assistant coaches Greg Manning, Jordan Watson and Abe Woldeslassie is unaffected by Patsos’ resignation.

“The recent allegations certainly are disheartening,” D’Argenio said. “They impact everybody associated with Siena basketball, but the people who feel it the most are the players and team members.”

D’Argenio said some of the allegations have been resolved, but declined to offer specifics because the investigation is continuing.

Patsos could not be immediately reached for comment. Players were told of the move by Coughlin and D’Argenio on Friday afternoon.

The probe started with the manager’s claims, then found the possibility that per diem money was not being issued to players as it was supposed to be, along with other allegations.

At a news conference last week, Patsos denied abusing the manager and disavowed any knowledge of per diem money being misappropriated.

Patsos has been a head coach for each of the last 14 seasons, five at Siena and the previous nine at Loyola of Maryland. Before going to Loyola, Patsos was a longtime assistant at Maryland under Gary Williams.