McAllen ISD announced on Wednesday that it has relieved Jose Yebra, head coach of the McAllen Rowe boys basketball team, of his coaching duties following an internal investigation. The investigation found that Rowe had used an ineligible player during the 2023-24 season. The District 31-5A Executive Committee (DEC) convened and decided that Rowe must forfeit all games in which the ineligible player participated.
In a statement, McAllen ISD stated, "Following an internal investigation, McAllen ISD has determined the James 'Nikki' Rowe boys basketball team used an ineligible player during the 2023-24 season. As a result, the district has relieved Coach Jose Yebra of his coaching duties. The district self-reported to the 31-5A District Executive Committee (DEC). At a DEC meeting held today (Feb. 14, 2024), the DEC determined that the Rowe boys basketball team must forfeit all games in which the ineligible player took part. These actions are not a reflection of McAllen ISD’s excellent sports programs. The district expects rules and regulations to be followed at all times."
This decision eliminates Rowe from playoff contention. Despite finishing the regular season with a record of 23-13 overall and 11-7 in district play, the forfeitures place them out of the running. They had tied with Sharyland Pioneer for the fourth and final playoff spot in District 31-5A. Rowe's victory over Pioneer on Tuesday night created the tie for the district’s fourth seed.
Yebra had been the head boys basketball coach at McAllen Rowe since 1999.
