LUBBOCK, Texas — Fired Texas Tech coach Mike Leach says he did not mistreat a player after a concussion.
Leach spoke to The New York Times and ESPN about his firing. He was dismissed Wednesday, two days after his suspension.
The school was investigating his treatment of Adam James. The sophomore receiver said Leach twice confined him to a small, dark place after his concussion diagnosis. Leach told the Times on Thursday night and ESPN on Friday that James was lazy and acted as if entitled to special treatment.
James' father is ESPN analyst Craig James. Leach contends Craig James tried to leverage his position as a way to get more playing time for his son.
A phone message by The Associated Press was not immediately returned.