Why was Greg Heiar fired? New Mexico State hazing allegations explored

Greg Heiar was fired as New Mexico State's coach on Tuesday. The decision came a few days after New Mexico State canceled the men's basketball team's season. The university is currently investigating allegations of hazing in the team.

New Mexico State chancellor Dan Arvizu made the announcement on Tuesday (February 14), informing Heiar that he has been relieved of his duties. The remainder of Heiar's coaching staff will remain on paid administrative leave as the university continues its investigation.

"Hazing has no place on our campus," Arvizu said. "And those found responsible will be held accountable for their actions. I am committed to the safety and well-being of all members of our campus community, as well as to the integrity of our university."

Greg Heiar was initially placed on paid administrative leave when campus police received a report from a current New Mexico State basketball player. The unnamed player was the alleged victim of false imprisonment, harassment and multiple counts of criminal sexual contact by three of his teammates.

The report noted that the victim was sexually harassed by three of his teammates on February 6. His clothes were removed, exposing his backside, which was slapped repeatedly. The alleged incident is not new, as it has been reportedly happening since last July inside the locker room and on the road.

The allegations of hazing were not the first scandal for New Mexico State basketball this season. Aggies forward Mike Peake was involved in a shooting that killed a New Mexico student last November. Peake has been suspended from the team, and the investigation is still ongoing.

New Mexico State, as well as the Albuquerque district attorney's office, are investigating the coaching staff. They were allegedly in possession of several key pieces of evidence that included the gun used for the shooting.

Coach Heiar even made the baffling decision to instruct the entire team and coaching staff to leave in the middle of the police investigation. Three players who were with Peake during the incident also left despite being asked to stay and answer some questions.

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Greg Heiar leaves with losing record

Greg Heiar was hired by New Mexico State in March to replace Chris Jans, who signed with Mississippi State to become their new coach. Heiar was coming off an impressive first season with Northwest Florida State College after leading the Raiders to an overall record of 31-5.

However, things did not go smoothly for Heiar at New Mexico State. At the time of the season's suspension, Heiar and the Aggies only had a 9-15 record, winning only twice in the Western Athletic Conference.

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