Coach Jay Ladner’s family releases statement thanking fans

The family of Southern Miss Men’s Basketball Coach Jay Ladner has released a statement after he suffered a heart-related medical emergency earlier this week.

The family is thanking fans for the outpouring of support and also thanking the doctors at Hattiesburg’s Forrest General Hospital for their work in treating Coach Ladner.

Ladner is said to be in great spirits and resting comfortable, he is expected to make a full recovery.

The family is also asking Southern Miss fans to pack Reed Green Coliseum over the next few weeks while Ladner recuperates.

Assistant Coach Juan Cardona is serving as interim coach in Ladner’s absence.

Cardona led the Golden Eagles to a 78-73 win in Hattiesburg in the first game since Ladner’s medical emergency.