Larry Harrison makes first public statement since being fired from WVU's men's hoops program

Jan. 17—MORGANTOWN — Former WVU men's basketball associate head coach Larry Harrison made his first public statement Tuesday morning about his firing last week from the program.

In it, he calls the dismissal "unforeseen " and that he read the university's statement about the decision was made in the best interest of Mountaineer basketball, and that he assumes "that some important people believe that to be true."

Harrison also did not offer up an explanation or give any personal insight into the firing, but wrote, "I can assure you that I am not the subject of any NCAA, criminal or other investigation or violations."

Harrison was on WVU's hoops staff since Bob Huggins was hired in 2007 and spent the last 13 seasons as the associate head coach. He was a part of five Sweet 16 runs in the NCAA tournament, as well as the run to the 2010 Final Four. Harrison also spent eight seasons with Huggins at Cincinnati and also spent six seasons as the head coach of the University of Hartford.

He was fired on Jan. 12, with 15 games remaining in the regular season. In announcing the firing, WVU or Huggins did not give a reason for the dismissal and Huggins has not offered up any reasons for it since.

Harrison's complete statement:

"Thank you to numerous players, boosters, media, alumni, coaches, friends and fans that have reached out to me over these past days. I wish I had an explanation to share with you in regards to my unforeseen dismissal but I do not. However I can assure you that I am not the subject of any NCAA, criminal or other investigations or violations. I read the university's statement that the decision was made in the best interest of Mountaineer basketball. I can only assume that some important people believe that be true."

"To Mountaineer Nation. Thank you for your loyalty, support and friendship over the last 15 1 /2 years. We had some great times ! Remember our first year, 2007, when we advanced to the Sweet Sixteen with wins over Arizona and Duke ; taking the city of Indianapolis at the Final Four or my personal favorite, winning the Big East Tournament ! I will always cherish the years of 'Press Virginia'. Thank you for the cheers and being the loudest house in the conference."

To the players, both past and present, remember I'm a phone call away and like always, 'Coach Harry got your back'. You have my continued love, loyalty and support."

"Sincerely, Coach Larry Harrison "

"Once a Mountaineer Always a Mountaineer "

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