ASU’s Regents Put Off Discussion of New Cage Coach

TEMPE, Ariz. —  State regents postponed a conference call today about hiring a basketball coach at Arizona State University, temporarily halting speculation that the job had been offered to Purdue’s Gene Keady.

“It was deferred until early next week,” said Rick Wanninger, ASU’s assistant sports information director. He declined to comment on progress in finding a replacement for Steve Patterson.

Published reports have cited sources who believe Keady has accepted the position. However, Keady has refused to discuss his plans beyond saying that if he decides to leave he will tell his employer and players first.

Athletic directors George King of Purdue and Charles Harris of ASU also declined comment.

Patterson resigned last month with a 48-56 record, leaving his assistant, Bob Schermerhorn, to coach the last nine games.