Div. III team forfeits game in protest of coach's firing

WAYNE, N.J. (AP) - A Division III basketball team forfeited a conference game to protest the firing of its coach, dressing and warming up before collectively walking off the court as the game was about to begin.

William Paterson forefeited Tuesday night against Ramapo College in support of longtime coach Jose Rebimbas, who was in his 21st season.

Rebimbas declined comment on Wednesday, but said on Facebook on Sunday that he was fired because of a misunderstanding over facility rental fees for a camp he runs.

Athletic director Sabrina Grant and athletic spokeswoman Heather Brocious did not immediately return calls seeking comment from The Associated Press. The school is closed because of the Thanksgiving holiday.

Ramapo coach Chuck McBreen says when his team was getting ready for introductions, William Paterson's players threw their warmup shirts on the floor and walked off. McBreen says the interim coach then said the players had decided not to play.

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This story has been corrected to show the game was on Tuesday, not Monday.