The San Diego State University men's basketball program has been cleared of any wrongdoing after an NCAA inquiry found that allegations of possible violations "were not substantiated."
In September, it was reported that the Aztecs men's basketball program may have possibly provided improper benefits to prospects, prompting an NCAA investigation.
On Tuesday, in a release posted on the Aztecs' official athletic website, the school confirmed they were "notified that the NCAA has concluded its inquiry into the men's basketball program" by the NCAA director of enforcement.
Men's basketball head coach Steve Fisher said, "I am pleased that this confirms what I and our administration have known all along, that as a staff, we take great pride in representing San Diego State University and the men's basketball program, and conducting this program with the highest integrity."
The school said:
Since the allegations became public in September, San Diego State has been proactive in working hand-in-hand with the NCAA. In its notification to the University, the NCAA stated in part, "Based on available information, the allegations were not substantiated, and it does not appear there is need for further inquiry." It went on to say, "the enforcement staff appreciates the institution's cooperation related to this matter."
Fisher said, "These types of allegations are not uncommon in major college athletics. What is uncommon is that they ever come out in the public. I appreciate the NCAA's efforts to thoroughly look into this matter as well as the conclusion that there was no wrongdoing … I am particularly grateful to those national and local media outlets that allowed this process to play out and refrained from sensationalizing unsubstantiated allegations."
Fisher was hired by SDSU in 1999, two years after he was fired by Michigan because of the program's involvement with booster Ed Martin. Following an NCAA investigation, the school vacated its participation in the Final Four in 1992 and 1993.
Fisher coached Michigan to the 1989 national title.
Fisher has turned the once-moribund Aztecs into a perennial Top 25 and NCAA tournament team, including reaching the Sweet 16 twice in the past five seasons.
