Ellington

Ole Miss coach Andy Kennedy will coach the Rebels in their game Thursday (8 p.m., ESPN) against Cincinnati, despite his arrest Thursday morning. Kennedy was charged with punching a taxi driver, who also accused Kennedy of shouting racial slurs.

In a statement released by the school, Ole Miss athletic director Pete Boone said he believes Kennedy is innocent of the charges. Kennedy also apologized and denied the charges.

The statement released by Ole Miss Sports Information:

In response to the charges made against Ole Miss Head Basketball Coach Andy Kennedy in Cincinnati, Ohio, Thursday morning, Athletics Director Pete Boone and Coach Kennedy issued the following statements:

"Clearly, this is an unfortunate situation. However, after a full discussion with Andy Kennedy and his staff, who were with him, I have the utmost confidence that once all the facts are known, Coach Kennedy will be cleared of all charges," said Boone, who is with the team.

"I regret this situation," Kennedy said. "The focus should be on the players and the game, not on me. I vehemently deny the charges levied against me, and am completely confident that I will be fully exonerated of all charges."

Coach Kennedy will continue his coaching duties.