U of L athletic director Tom Jurich, one of John Marinatto's closest allies during his tenure as Big East commissioner, issued the following statement on Marinatto's resignation:
"John is a tireless worker and for so many years, his time and energy have been consumed by working to make our league better for all of its membership. We at the University of Louisville are indebted to John for his efforts in navigating our university's move to the BIG EAST Conference. He is a true gentleman in every sense of the word and has terrific character and integrity. John is a good friend, we have appreciated our association with him and we wish him the very best."
According to Eric Crawford, Rick Pitino - who consistently spoke out on behalf of Marinatto during the realignment madness - will not make a public comment out of a respect for Marinatto's wishes.
All reports are that this forced resignation has left a very sour taste in the mouths of the powers that be at U of L. Not a good morning for the Big East's relationship with Louisville.