Rutgers coach's firing opens conversation on psychology and sports

Rutgers University fired head basketball Coach Mike Rice Wednesday after ESPN obtained videos of him abusing players in practice. The abuse was verbal and physical — the video shows him hurling balls at the players at close range and screaming obscenities and slurs at them.

Thirteen Rutgers faculty members are now calling for the resignation of Rutgers President Robert Barchi, and some alumni are saying that Athletic Director Tim Pernetti should be dismissed as well. (It was revealed Thursday that the fired coach will get a hefty bonus for lasting through the season.)

John Tauer, professor of psychology and head men's basketball coach at the University of St. Thomas, joins The Daily Circuit to discuss the psychology of competition and coaching.

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READ MORE ABOUT COMPETITION AND COACHING:

Video shows Mike Rice's ire. ESPN broke the story when it obtained videos of Rutgers basketball practice.

The Competing Views on Competition. John Tauer shares his view and research on competition with The New York Times.

A Sad History of Abusive Coaches. The New York Times compiles a list of infamous college coaches.