UTSA men’s basketball coach Austin Claunch suspended after arrest on suspicion of DWI. Here’s what we know.

UTSA men’s basketball coach Austin Claunch was suspended following an arrest on suspicion of driving while intoxicated, the university announced Wednesday in a press release:

Statement from UTSA Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Lisa Campos

UTSA Head Men’s Basketball Coach Austin Claunch has been suspended effective today following his arrest on suspicion of driving while intoxicated (DWI). The university is reviewing the circumstances and will determine appropriate next steps, including the length of his suspension. Assistant Coach Nick Bowman will serve as acting head coach during his absence.

UTSA Athletics holds its coaches, staff, and student-athletes to high standards of conduct and accountability. We take this matter seriously and will address it in accordance with university policies and procedures.

Statement from UTSA Head Men’s Basketball Coach Austin Claunch

“I made a grave error in judgment, and I deeply regret my actions and the disappointment I have caused. I sincerely apologize to the young men I have the privilege of coaching, my fellow coaches and colleagues, President Eighmy, Dr. Lisa Campos and the entire Roadrunner community. I recognize the responsibility that comes with being a head coach and the example I am expected to set, both on and off the court. I fell short of those expectations, and for that, I am truly sorry. I take full responsibility for my decisions and am committed to learning from this experience and earning back the trust and confidence of those who have placed their faith in me.”

Claunch was booked at 6 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 27, and released at 7:05 p.m., the Nueces County Jail told Alamo Audible.

Claunch’s virtual media availability was originally set for 10 a.m. on the 27th, but on Monday, Oct. 26, UTSA announced it would be pushed back to 1 p.m. Following his arrest, UTSA announced at 11:29 a.m. on Oct. 27 that Claunch’s virtual media availability was canceled entirely due to a “scheduling conflict.”

UTSA men’s basketball proceeded with its scheduled in-person media day activities at 2:30 p.m. on Oct. 28, where Claunch spoke with the media for over 10 minutes.

Claunch’s contract defines “cause” for suspension and termination as:

“Any conduct (a) that the University administration reasonably determines is unbecoming to a Head Coach and reflects poorly on the University, the Program, or The University of Texas System; or (b) resulting in a criminal charge being brought against Head Coach involving a felony, or any crime involving theft, dishonesty, or moral turpitude;”

This is a developing story and will be updated.