Rutgers men's basketball coach Mike Rice returns to practice

Rutgers men's basketball coach Mike Rice, suspended for the last three games for inappropriate behavior and language after an internal investigation, has returned to Scarlet Knights practice, vowing to change his ways. Via SNY Rutgers:

The third-year head coach conducted a 40 minute shoot around with his team - where he didn't use profane language and the only time he raised his voice was after the the team broke the huddle and he exclaimed "get extra shots" - before spending 18 minutes talking to the media.

He vowed several times that he will grow and change from the experience and ultimately become a better person.

Rice was also fined $50,000 as part of the punishment. The three games missed total $24,905, meaning the Rutgers headman is out $74,905 as part of his suspension, nearly 25 percent of his base $300,000 salary.

In his stead, associate head coach David Cox guided the team in three homes games against UAB, Howard, and Rider. Rutgers went 3-0 in those games, and brings a 9-2 record into Big East conference play.

Rice has compiled a 36-37 overall record as head coach of the Scarlet Knights. The team has yet to make a NIT or NCAA Tournament in his first two seasons at Rutgers. Prior to arriving in New Brunswick, Rice led Robert Morris to a 73-31 record in his three seasons as head man of the Colonials, making the NCAA Tournament twice.