Tape Of Rutgers Coach Abusing Players Draws Christie Condemnation

Gov. Chris Christie was "deeply disturbed" after viewing a video of Rutgers basketball coach Mike Rice using abusive language, shoving and kicking Rutgers University basketball players during practices.

According to a report on NJ.com, the 40-minute video was the basis for Rice's three-game suspension and $50,000 fine in December.

The tape has drawn widespread condemnation for Rice's use of gay slurs directed at his players. Rutgers showed the tape to reporters on Tuesday after learning that ESPN plans to air footage of the tapes this week.

The video covers practices that occurred between 2010 and 2012, according to a report on ESPN.com.

"Governor Christie saw the video today for the first time and he is obviously deeply disturbed by the conduct displayed and strongly condemns this behavior," said Christie's press secretary Mike Drewniak in a prepared statement on Tuesday. "It's not the type of leadership we should be showing our young people and clearly there are questions about this behavior that need to be answered by the leaders at Rutgers University.”

The video came from the attorneys of former Rutgers director of player development Eric Murdock, who plans to sue Rutgers, claiming he was fired in 2012 for complaining about Rice's behavior, according to the NJ.com report.

Rutgers Athletic Director Tim Pernetti said that Rice will remain as head coach, but has undergone anger management counseling and was monitored at practices upon returning from his suspension. He has two years left on a five-year contract with Rutgers, according to the report.