Texas Tech Threatened With Lawsuit If Leach Wasn't Investigated

Sports News - January 28th, 2010 - Written By Bryan

As the lawsuit filed by former Texas Tech head coach Mike Leach continues to argue the appropriateness of how he was fired, the Associated Press released further information regarding why.

He was given a swift boot from school officials in a surprisingly quick turn of events in late December, the AP learned in a memo, because the father of wide receiver Adam James threatened to sue if he wasn't investigated.

James complained of being sequestered in a small "electrical closet" as he recovered from a concussion early in December, and was forced to stay there as his teammates practiced.

His father, ESPN analyst Craig James, apparently approached the school's attorney, Ronny Wall, and insisted the matter be looked at, threatening a lawsuit otherwise.

In the memo, released by ESPN, Craig James "indicated that litigation could ensue" if the school failed to investigate the coach "for improper treatment".

"The threat did not appear to be an idle threat as the parent expressed genuine concern for the health and well-being of his injured child, as well as other student-athletes," the memo said.

Leach continues to dispute any wrongdoing, and has since filed his own lawsuit to reclaim the lost wages of his terminated contract.

Leach is still out of work, but is still reportedly looking into job offers. It was reported that Arizona head coach Mike Stoops has some interest in bringing him in to be the team's offensive coordinator, but that interest has cooled for fear of a power struggle down the road.

Texas Tech has since signed former Auburn head coach Tommy Tuberville, who said he would keep the Red Raiders spread option attack that has continually finished atop NCAA Football Division I in yards and points per game.