Steve Masiello has completed his degree work at Kentucky, a school spokesman told SNY.tv.
“Yes, he has completed his coursework and is on track for August graduation,” Kentucky’s Jay Blanton said by text.
The news was previously reported by ESPN.com.
Masiello has been on unpaid leave at Manhattan since March 26 after it was discovered during a background check by the University of South Florida that he had not completed his degree work at Kentucky.
Assuming all goes well, Masiello could be back on the recruiting trail during the important month of July, when coaches hit the road to evaluate prospects.
A Manhattan spokesman declined comment Tuesday, but the school issued the following statement in April, when it announced that Masiello would return as coach.
“After an extensive review of the situation and extenuating circumstances, we determined that Mr. Masiello executed poor judgment but did not intentionally misrepresent himself in applying to the College,” said Brennan O’Donnell, president of Manhattan College. “After participating in graduation ceremonies at the University of Kentucky, he enrolled in summer courses with the intention of completing his degree, but never followed through to make sure that the degree was awarded. We appreciate the counsel of all involved in assessing this complex situation. Our policy was always that the coach must have at least a four-year undergraduate degree. We are confident that Mr. Masiello will be able to complete his degree this summer and return soon thereafter to resume his duties.”
“I am extremely grateful and humbled by the opportunity to continue as the head men’s basketball coach at Manhattan College,” Masiello said then. “I made a mistake that could have cost me my job at an institution I love. Details matter. Manhattan College has shown me a great deal of compassion and trust during this process, and I will do everything in my power to uphold that trust. I understand that I am very fortunate to have the chance to remain here at Manhattan.”
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