Air Force Men's Basketball Coach Suspended Amid Athlete Treatment Investigation; Interim Coach Named
January 17, 2026
The academy has not disclosed the nature of the treatment concerns under investigation.
If the investigation uncovers issues, the program could see broader policy reforms or personnel changes.
The incident highlights ongoing concerns about athlete welfare at service academies and may trigger stronger internal review processes.
ESPN’s Jeff Borzello and The Associated Press contributed information for the report.
The report attributes information to ESPN's Jeff Borzello and The Associated Press.
The development represents a major crisis for the program and disrupts the schedule as the investigation unfolds.
The academy canceled all media availability for the team’s home game against Nevada on the day of the announcement.
Jon Jordan will serve as interim head coach for the game against Nevada as the investigation proceeds.
Air Force men's basketball head coach Joe Scott has been suspended indefinitely amid an investigation into the treatment of cadet-athletes, with assistant coach Jon Jordan named interim head coach.
Air Force hosts Nevada on the day of the announcement, with limited context about broader program timelines.
The scope, potential outcomes, and timeline of the investigation remain unclear, with possible results ranging from reinstatement to termination.
Scott has said he will fully cooperate, will refrain from comment until resolution, and looks forward to a proper outcome.
Summary based on 20 sources
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Sources

The Athletic • Jan 17, 2026
Air Force coach Joe Scott suspended indefinitely pending investigation into athlete treatment
The Guardian • Jan 17, 2026
Air Force suspends men’s basketball coach amid investigation into treatment of cadet-athletes
USA TODAY • Jan 17, 2026
Air Force men's basketball coach Joe Scott suspended 'indefinitely'
Daily Mail • Jan 17, 2026
Air Force basketball coach Joe Scott suspended indefinitely pending investigation