Air Force Academy Parts Ways with Head Coach Joe Scott
The Air Force Academy has officially parted ways with its men’s basketball head coach Joe Scott, following a month of suspension while an investigation into his conduct regarding cadets took place. This decision, described by the academy as a “mutual parting of ways,” paves the way for an interim coaching period under assistant coach Jon Jordan.
Coaching Achievements and Challenges
Athletic Director Nathan Pine highlighted Scott’s fervor for basketball and credited his coaching for some remarkable achievements during his earlier tenure from 2000 to 2004, which included a season where the team boasted a 22-7 record and earned a spot in the NCAA Tournament. However, Pine underscored that now is an appropriate moment for a shift in leadership to align the program’s direction with the academy’s values of cultivating leaders equipped to serve in the Air Force and Space Force.
Joe Scott’s overall coaching record with the Falcons reads 97 wins against 183 losses. After his first coaching period ended, Scott spent time at Princeton and Denver before returning to the Air Force Academy in 2020. In the last few seasons, the team’s performance has struggled; they recorded a mere four victories last year and have only managed three wins to date this season, currently on a disappointing streak of 19 consecutive losses.
Reflections on Departure
In reflecting on his departure, Scott expressed gratitude towards Nate Pine and acknowledged the Air Force Academy for providing him with his first head coaching opportunity, indicating a lasting appreciation for Air Force Basketball despite the turn of events.
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