Feb. 9, 2001

LAS VEGAS - Statement from UNLV President Carol C. Harter regarding conversations with Rick Pitino:

"Today Athletics Director Charles Cavagnaro and I had a very meaningful discussion about the UNLV Men's Basketball program with coach Rick Pitino. I found Mr. Pitino to be very knowledgeable about UNLV and its challenges, but also very upbeat about his ability to tackle those challenges. UNLV made no formal offer of employment to the coach, nor did the coach seek one. We do, however, intend now to continue such discussions, and expect a definitive resolution to this matter at the conclusion of the current season. I will report back to the community on the status of those discussions at the appropriate time."