This week, we’re talking to Las Cruces Sun-News Lead Sports Reporter Jason Groves. We’ll talk about everything that has happened in recent weeks surrounding the New Mexico State University’s men’s basketball team — and it’s been a lot.
Jason took over coverage of the team just days after the deadly Nov. 19 shooting on the campus of the University of New Mexico, following the departure of former Sun-News reporter Stephen Wagner. Since then, he has covered the team as they struggled to win games. Then, on Feb. 10, things got even less predictable.
The Aggies were pulled off a road trip and Head Coach Greg Heiar and his coaching staff were placed on paid administrative leave following allegations of hazing among Aggies players. According to police documents, at least three players assaulted a teammate. The incident was reported to New Mexico State University Police Department on Feb. 10; the incident report was made public on Sunday, Feb. 12.
Minutes after the hazing details were made public, NMSU Chancellor Dan Arvizu announced that the remainder of the team’s season was “suspended indefinitely.” Later, it was made clear that the season was canceled entirely.
On Tuesday, Feb. 14, Arvizu announced Heiar was fired as the men's basketball coach after less than one season.
While both situations are still under investigation, some strong language has been thrown around by university officials since details started coming to light.
This week, I’m excited to have Jason joining us.