UTSA Suspends Basketball Coach Austin Claunch Following DWI Arrest

“I made a grave error in judgment, and I deeply regret my actions and the disappointment I have caused.”

That is how Austin Claunch addressed the Roadrunner community after UTSA suspended its men’s basketball coach following an arrest on suspicion of driving while intoxicated. The university announced the suspension Wednesday, Oct. 28.

UTSA Head Men's Basketball Coach Austin Claunch was arrested on suspicion of DWI and has been suspended by the school: pic.twitter.com/uLZWDgwBL6

— https://x.com/NILnotNLI/status/2115656965708030230

Claunch was arrested on Tuesday, Oct. 27, in Nueces County, according to online records. Assistant coach Nick Bowman will serve as the interim coach while the university is “reviewing the circumstances and will determine appropriate next steps.”

Athletic director Lisa Campos addressed the department’s expectations in a statement released Wednesday. “UTSA Athletics holds its coaches, staff, and student-athletes to high standards of conduct and accountability,” Campos said. “We take this matter seriously and will address it in accordance with university policies and procedures.”

The Road to San Antonio and an Unfolding Timeline

Records show Claunch led the Roadrunners through a scheduled practice at noon on Wednesday, even speaking with local media representatives around 2:30 p.m. before the university announced the disciplinary action shortly after 6 p.m.

Claunch has a 17-44 record in two seasons with the Roadrunners, including a 5-25 mark last season. Before taking the job at UTSA, he worked as an assistant at Alabama, George Mason, Clemson, and Nicholls, where he eventually was elevated to head coach. Claunch was the youngest head coach in Division I from 2018-21 after taking over at Nicholls.

In his public statement, Claunch acknowledged the broader fallout of his arrest. “I sincerely apologize to the young men I have privilege of coaching, my fellow coaches and colleagues, President (Taylor) Eighmy, Dr. Lisa Campos and the entire Roadrunner community,” he said. “I recognize the responsibility that comes with being a head coach and the example I am expected to set, both on and off the court.”

Season Opener Looms on the Road

UTSA opens the season Monday with a road game at San Jose State, a contest that Bowman will now prepare for.

UTSA Suspends Basketball Coach Austin Claunch Following DWI Arrest — Photo: expressnews.com

While university officials weigh the ultimate duration of the suspension, the athletic department has not yet detailed further disciplinary hearings or long-term staffing adjustments beyond naming Bowman interim leader.