Hawaii men's basketball coach Gib Arnold has been fired after four seasons, the university announced Tuesday.
Assistant coach Brandyn Akana was also fired in a sudden scrubbing atop the men's program that came less than three weeks before Hawaii begins its season in the Rainbow Classic on Nov. 14 against Arkansas-Pine Bluff.
The program has been under investigation by the NCAA for potential rules violations,
"These painful but critical steps are being taken in an effort to strengthen our athletics program and to do right by our student athletes and students in general," athletic director Ben Jay said in a statement. "We appreciate the work of Gib and Brandyn and wish them both the best in the future."
Arnold was hired in March 2010 and signed a three-year extension three years ago that was not set to expire until June 30, 2015.
The school said he will remain employed through Jan. 26 and will be paid the remainder of his contract in a lump sum.
Akana will stay employed through Jan. 26 and is not entitled to any additional compensation.
"We are committed to setting the best possible examples for our players not only on the field of sports but in life," said university chancellor Robert Bley-Vroman. "Jay has my full support in these steps that will strengthen the long-term future of our athletics program and our university."
The Rainbow Warriors went 72-55 under Arnold, including 20-11 last season -- their first 20-win season since 2003-04. Arnold's father coached the Warriors from 1985-87.
[SportsNetwork.com]
