Michigan State Assistant Coach Dwayne Stephens Denies NCAA Violation Allegations
EAST LANSING, MI — Michigan State assistant basketball coach Dwayne Stephens has firmly denied allegations that he committed an NCAA violation, calling the claims “baseless and inaccurate” in a statement released earlier this week. The veteran coach, who has spent years working under head coach Tom Izzo, emphasized that he has always adhered to NCAA rules and university compliance protocols.
The allegations, details of which have not yet been fully disclosed by the NCAA, reportedly stem from a recruiting-related matter involving an unnamed high school athlete. While official documents have yet to be made public, sources close to the situation suggest the issue involves a potential improper contact or benefit extended during a recruiting trip earlier this year.
Stephens addressed the matter directly in a prepared statement, expressing both disappointment and confidence. “I want to be absolutely clear—I have not committed any NCAA violation,” Stephens said. “I take the integrity of the game seriously and have always conducted myself in accordance with NCAA rules and the expectations of Michigan State University.”
He continued, “These accusations are not only false but damaging to my reputation and the reputation of the program I’ve been proud to serve for many years. I welcome any and all investigations into this matter and am confident that a thorough review will confirm my compliance with the rules.”
Michigan State University also released a brief statement supporting Stephens, though the university indicated it would withhold further comment until the NCAA concludes its review.
“We are aware of the allegations involving Assistant Coach Dwayne Stephens,” the statement read. “Coach Stephens has been a valued member of our program for many years, and we take any compliance concerns seriously. We are cooperating fully with the NCAA and conducting an internal review.”
Dwayne Stephens has long been regarded as a critical part of Michigan State’s basketball success, known for his recruiting acumen and player development. A former Spartan player himself, Stephens returned to the university as a coach and has played a pivotal role in multiple Final Four runs under Izzo.
While this is not the first time NCAA violations have loomed over college basketball programs nationally, Michigan State has largely avoided major compliance issues in recent years. The current allegation brings fresh attention to the university’s internal oversight and the intense scrutiny facing recruiters at top-tier basketball schools.
Legal experts familiar with NCAA investigations note that these processes can take weeks or even months, depending on the complexity of the case. In the meantime, Stephens is expected to continue his duties with the program unless new evidence warrants administrative action.
Fans and alumni have voiced a mix of concern and support on social media, with many expressing hope that the matter is resolved quickly and fairly.
“I’ve known Coach Stephens since his playing days,” one former teammate tweeted. “He’s a man of character and integrity. I believe in him.”
As the investigation unfolds, all eyes remain on East Lansing. For now, Coach Stephens stands firm in his denial, determined to protect his name and continue contributing to the legacy of Michigan State basketball.
