Mississippi State coach Leach taken to hospital

Mississippi State coach Mike Leach was taken to a hospital Sunday after what the university called “a personal health issue” that happened at his home in Starkville.

Leach, 61, was taken by ambulance to the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson, which is about 125 miles away from Mississippi State, the university said in a statement.

The school said it would have no further comment on Leach’s condition, adding “that the thoughts and prayers of the university are with Mike and (wife) Sharon and their family.”

Defensive coordinator Zach Arnett has been placed in charge of the football team by Mississippi State President Mark Keenum and interim athletic director Bracky Brett as it prepares for an appearance in the ReliaQuest Bowl against Illinois on Jan. 1 in Tampa, Florida.

Leach is in his third season at Mississippi State, with a 19-17 record. Late in the season, he acknowledged dealing with some unspecified health issues that were causing a persistent cough.

Navy announced that coach Ken Niumatalolo won’t return next season. The announcement came a day after the Midshipmen lost to Army in OT and finished 4-8 for the second straight year. Niumatalolo, 57, is the winningest coach in school history at 109-83 in 15 seasons. Defensive coordinator Brian Newberry was named interim coach.

NBA: The Suns scratched guard and leading scorer Devin Booker from Sunday’s game against the Pelicans because of tightness in his left hamstring.

NHL: Predators forward Michael McCarron entered the player assistance program. He will continue to be paid while receiving treatment. The program administrators will determine when McCarron can return to the ice. McCarron, 27, has one goal, one assist and 21 shots on goal this season. He has played in 15 games.