One and Done: Billy Gillispie resigns from Texas Tech after one season

Citing health reasons, Billy Gillispie informed Texas Tech Athletic Director Kirby Hocutt that he will not return as head coach of the Red Raiders basketball program for the upcoming season. Gillispie had been on medical leave since September 10 after being hospitalized for high blood pressure.

The school indicated he will be paid for the remainder of his contract which expires in April 2013.

The former Kentucky coach’s future was likely limited at the university judging by the surrounding circumstances. Abuse of players and staff was alleged against him by players who met with Hocutt. The athletic director called the allegations “very troubling.” Whilst on medical leave, Gillispie was forbidden by the university from handling any day to day operations of the basketball program until he met with the AD.

It is unclear what the future holds for Gillispie going forward, but this in all likelihood ends his head coaching career at the Division I level. Once a fast rising prospect, it’s difficult to see another school taking a chance on him after two consecutive disastrous stints.

Gillipsie finished his first and only season in Lubbock with a 8-23 record and only one conference victory.