Seattle University basketball coach Jim Hayford has resigned, according to the university’s athletic director. 

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Hayford was accused of saying the N-word twice during a scrimmage on Nov. 4. Reports indicate this was not the coach’s first time using the racial slur, with one player alleging Hayford said it over the summer.  

After Hayford’s use of the slur, the majority of the team refused to play for him. “Most of the players don’t like him, so this was almost the final straw,” one source close to the program told Stadium. “He’s very emotional, flammable. It can be a hostile environment.”  

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According to the Associated Press, Hayford was first placed on administrative leave. University athletic director Shaney Fink released a statement saying, “It is clear to me that Coach Hayford is no longer able to effectively lead the team.”  

The school is also taking steps to examine the culture within the university’s basketball program. “We also recognize and appreciate the players’ desire to refocus on the season and each game in front of them,” Fink said.  

Hayford was with Seattle for four seasons with a 64-55 overall record. Associate head coach Chris Victor will serve as the interim coach.  

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