SANTA MARIA, Calif. (AP) — Neil Reed, the former Indiana basketball player who coach Bob Knight was caught on tape choking in 1997, has died after collapsing in his Central California home. He was 36.
Pioneer Valley High School Principal Shanda Hererra says Reed died Thursday morning of heart complications in Nipomo, Calif.
In March 2000, Reed accused Knight of choking him during a practice in 1997.
When video of the practice surfaced backing Reed’s claim, the Hall of Fame coach, who was known for his temper as well as his success, was put on a zero-tolerance policy by then-president Dr. Myles Brand.
Reed transferred to Southern Mississippi shortly after the incident and played there in the 1998-99 season.
Hererra says he had worked at the Santa Maria school coaching football, basketball, golf and teaching physical education since 2007.
Reed is survived by his wife, Kelly, and two daughters.
