Gillispie resigns as Texas Tech coach

Texas Tech basketball Coach Billy Gillispie resigned Thursday less than a month after a published report alleged he had mistreated a player. Gillispie went on a leave of absence following that report and there were additional published stories last week indicating he had traveled to the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota for treatment of high blood pressure. Athletic Director Kirby Hocutt said Gillispie had submitted his resignation due to health concerns. Gillispie, 52, had coached Texas Tech for one season. Practices will begin on Oct. 13. "Billy has decided to focus on his health and we wish him a full recovery," Hocutt said. "We are proud of the young men that he has brought to this campus. Billy's decision allows him to concentrate on his well being and allows us to turn our attention to preparations for the upcoming season." Hocutt said Gillispie would be paid for the upcoming season. He originally signed a five-year contract at Texas Tech. Assistant Chris Walker was named to run the team's day-to-day operations until an interim coach is chosen. Texas Tech had an 8-23 record during its one season under Gillispie. The Red Raiders won just one of its 18 Big 12 Conference games. Gillispie had previously coached at Texas-El Paso, Texas A&M and Kentucky.