Former Texas Tech head coach Mike Leach's financial quest hit a huge snag. The court of appeals threw out his breach of contract claim against his former employer.
It looks like Texas Tech cannot be touched, at least financially, when in comes to breach of contract claims. The state court of appeals agreed with Texas Tech and threw out former coach Mike Leach’s breach of contract claim for financial damages citing under the school’s sovereign immunity, Texas Tech cannot be sued unless the state granted permission or the school waived its immunity based on certain conduct.
The firing of Leach back in 2009, after he allegedly mistreated one of his players, Adam James, prompted this legal action. Though the court of appeals denied the possibility of any pecuniary interest, the court did rule that Leach may pursue his claim to establish that his firing was wrong. If successful on the merits, he may not receive a financial windfall but he will be afforded the opportunity to clear his name.
Leach’s attorney was clearly displeased with the court of appeals ruling and anticipates filing an appeal with the Texas Supreme Court. One thing is for certain, the Leach legal saga continues.
