Louisville coach Rick Pitino says he was unaware of any payments to recruits but takes responsibility for his decisions.
Pitino issued a written statement to the Cardinals' flagship radio station for distribution to local media, soon after former player David Padgett was introduced Friday as his interim replacement.
The Hall of Famer thanked players from his three most recent schools and said he owes an apology for the disappointment they have.
Pitino said: "I had no knowledge of any payments to any recruit or their family. But I was the head coach and I will take ownership of my decisions. The University took the action they thought was necessary and I will do the same."
