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In a decisive move on Friday, the Air Force Academy announced the termination of men’s basketball coach Joe Scott, following an indefinite suspension tied to an investigation into his conduct with cadet-athletes.
Nathan Pine, the Academy’s athletic director, emphasized the need for transformation within the program. “We are in a new era, and it is crucial to have a fresh perspective and approach that aligns seamlessly with the Academy’s mission of cultivating leaders of character for our Air Force and Space Force,” Pine remarked in a statement issued Friday evening.
He extended his gratitude for Scott’s decade-long dedication to the Academy, saying, “We thank Coach Scott for his 10 years of service and wish him and his family well.”
Last month, the Academy had confirmed Scott’s suspension amid an investigation, though details and specific accusations were not disclosed to the public. In his absence, assistant coach Jon Jordan stepped in to lead the team.
Assistant coach Jon Jordan replaced him.
“In response to today’s action, I will fully cooperate with the investigation and look forward to a proper resolution of this matter,” Scott said in a statement at the time.
“I will not have any further comment until the matter is resolved.”
Air Force labeled his split as a “mutual parting of ways” and ends Scott’s second run with the school.
He guided the Falcons from 2000-04 and and led the school to the NCAA Tournament during that 2003-04 season before leaving for Princeton.
Scott returned for the 2020-21 season and could not replicate his earlier success, posting a 46-120 mark over the past five-plus seasons.
This year’s team went 3-14 with him leading the squad and is 0-9 since his suspension, and the Falcons are just one of three Division I teams without a senior on their roster, according to The Athletic.
Scott went 97-183 with Air Force and is 281-360 in his career.
“I thank Nate Pine for his leadership,” Scott said in the release. The Air Force Academy gave me my first head coaching opportunity and I am forever grateful. We will always be fans of Air Force Basketball.”