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Cincinnati men's basketball coach John Brannen on leave amid investigation

The University of Cincinnati on Saturday put men's basketball coach John Brannen on paid leave pending an investigation after six Bearcats players decided to transfer last month.

The school announced March 26 that it had launched an investigation amid reports that a rift between Brannen and players had led to the requested transfers. Among the six who entered the transfer portal during a week in March were four members of the 2020 freshman class.

Brennan's attorney, Tom Mars, told ESPN in a statement that Cincinnati is mishandling its investigation.

"It's been my experience that collegiate ADs are experts at mishandling internal investigations, and this case is no exception," Mars said.