Gib Arnold is no longer the head coach at Hawaii after he was relieved of his post due to an NCAA investigation, the school announced on Tuesday. Assistant coach Brandyn Akana has also been let go.
Hawaii self-reported violations to the NCAA earlier this year, but no ruling has been handed down at this point. However, Hawaii’s athletic department thought it best to move forward without two of its leaders.
"These painful but critical steps are being taken in an effort to strengthen our athletics program and to do right by our student athletes and students in general," said Athletic Director Ben Jay in an announcement made Tuesday. "We appreciate the work of Gib and Brandyn and wish them both the best in the future."
According to KITV in Honolulu, both Arnold and Akana will retain employment at the university until January 26, and both will receive a lump sum payment in accordance with their respective contracts. However, neither will have access to any basketball related activities.
Associate head coach Benjy Taylor has taken over the program on an interim basis. ESPN reports that former Rainbow Warriors coach Riley Wallace could also get the nod to be a temporary coach for the team.
Arnold compiled a 72-55 record over four season at UH, and his team finished 20-11 last season.
Practice is in full swing at all Division I schools, and Hawaii opens its season on November 14 when it welcomes Arkansas-Pine Bluff to the Islands. The Rainbow Warriors were picked to finish fifth in the Big West Conference this season.