K-State Coach Suspended

Kansas State women’s basketball coach Brian Agler was suspended pending an NCAA rules violation investigation, and former men’s coach Jack Hartman replaced him as interim coach on Friday.

The school did not disclose the nature of the investigation into the NCAA rules violations in announcing the suspension Friday. It did not say when Agler was suspended.

“We can’t really comment on anything right now, pending further investigation,” said Ben Boyle, sports information director for Kansas State. “They’re still looking into the matter.”

Backup point guard Carlene Mitchell, a senior, was also suspended. School officials would not comment on the reason for her suspension or whether it related to Agler’s.

Hartman, the winningest basketball coach in Kansas State history with 295 victories in 16 seasons, coached the women’s team Friday night in an 81-75 victory over Nebraska. Mitchell sat on the bench in street clothes.

Hartman said that athletic director Max Urick called him Thursday night.

“He didn’t say what the problem was, but if we didn’t get the problem solved, would I be able to help,” Hartman said.

The former coach was formally asked on Friday to fill in, and players did not find out about Agler’s suspension until 2 hours before the game.