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By Organ Mountain News on

NMSU to pay $600,000 to settle wrongful termination suit with former coach Greg Heiar

New Mexico State University has agreed to pay $600,000 to settle former men’s basketball coach Greg Heiar’s wrongful termination lawsuit. ESPN first reported the settlement, which follows his 2023 dismissal amid hazing investigations and a fatal shooting tied to the program.

Sports NMSU News
NMSU to pay $600,000 to settle wrongful termination suit with former coach Greg Heiar
(Courtesy photo / New Mexico State University Athletics)

University ends legal fight over 2023 firing amid hazing allegations and a player-involved shooting

Organ Mountain News report

LAS CRUCES - New Mexico State University will pay $600,000 to settle a wrongful termination lawsuit filed by former men’s basketball coach Greg Heiar.

ESPN first reported the settlement, later confirmed by outlets including CBS Sports and the Las Cruces Sun-News.

Heiar was fired in February 2023 — less than a year into his five-year contract. The dismissal came amid hazing allegations within the program and a fatal shooting in Albuquerque involving a player.

In a statement to ESPN, Heiar’s attorneys said:

“Coach Heiar is pleased that this matter is now fully and finally resolved to our satisfaction, and excited to continue his coaching career. Coach Heiar wishes NMSU, the men’s basketball program and the Aggie fans all the best going forward.”

The agreement closes a lawsuit that stemmed from one of the most turbulent chapters in NMSU athletics history.

Heiar has since rebuilt his career, guiding Trinity Valley Community College in Athens, Texas, to a national junior college title last year and earning coach of the year honors.

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