UTSA basketball coach arrested, placed on leave. What to know

UTSA Roadrunners head coach Austin Claunch gives instruction to his team. Wichita State defeated UTSA 84-67 on Sunday,March 1, 2026 at UTSA Convocation Center. (Ronald Cortes/Contributor) After about two years on the job and just ahead of his third season, a UT-San Antonio head coach has been suspended from his role after an arrest. The university says it will review the "circumstances" to figure out next steps.UTSA Men's Head Basketball Coach Austin Claunch, who is identified as James Claunch in public records, was arrested early Tuesday evening, October 27, in Nueces County. Claunch, 36, was charged with driving while intoxicated."UTSA Head Men's Basketball Coach Austin Claunch has been suspended effective today following his arrest on suspicion of driving while intoxicated," UTSA Athletics Director Lisa Campos said in a statement Wednesday night. "The university is reviewing the circumstances and will determine appropriate next steps, including the length of his suspension."Assistant Coach Nick Bowman is slated to take the reins for Claunch in his absence, and it's unclear how long that will absence will last. Claunch's arrest came just hours after he fielded reporter questions Tuesday after leading the team through a practice ahead of their first big game early next week.The basketball coach has been praised by the university for his "fiery coaching style" which has pushed the men's basketball team to close the gap on their losing streak. While still not carrying a strong record, the team's losses were ended with closer score spreads."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."In the same public statement, Claunch said he regrets his actions and the disappointment he caused. He apologized to the players he's been prepping for a new season along with his colleagues."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. I fell short of those expectations, and for that, I am truly sorry," Claunch said. "I take full responsibility for my decisions and am committed to learning and earning back the trust and confidence of those who have placed their faith in me."Sign up for Afternoon Headlines, MySA's free newsletter bringing you San Antonio's top stories of the day.This article originally published at UTSA basketball coach arrested, placed on leave. What to know.