Knight reprimanded . . . and applauded

LUBBOCK, Texas -- Bob Knight was reprimanded, but not suspended, yesterday for his loud public outburst at Texas Tech chancellor David Smith.

Tech athletic director Gerald Myers said in a statement that "appropriate personnel action" was taken regarding Monday's verbal spat involving the coach at an upscale grocery store.

"I regret that the situation turned out the way it did," Knight said in a four-paragraph news release.

Later yesterday, Knight guided the No. 19 Red Raiders to an 83-63 victory over visiting Baylor. Andre Emmett scored 25 points for the Red Raiders, who snapped a two-game losing streak.

As Knight left the court the crowd cheered loudly and the Hall of Fame coach acknowledged them by raising his right hand in appreciation. Texas Tech (17-4, 5-2 Big 12) used a 13-2 run early in the second half to pull away from a halftime tie. The Red Raiders hit eight of their first 11 shots, outscoring Baylor 21-8 in the first 7 minutes of the second half.

Knight received a loud ovation when he came onto the court a few of minutes earlier than usual.

Even a Baylor assistant, standing under the basket during warmups, applauded as Knight walked out and shook his hand.

Knight spent much of the day meeting with school officials. "I look forward to finishing this season in a strong fashion and I am glad the situation is behind me so that I can return to the business of coaching," Knight said.

This is the first time Tech has punished Knight in his three seasons at the school. He was hired in March 2001, six months after he was fired by Indiana for what then-school president Myles Brand called his "pattern of unacceptable behavior."