Jackson, MS (My Sportsbook) - USC men's basketball coach Tim Floyd sent a brief one paragraph letter of resignation to athletic director Mike Garrett on Tuesday, officially ending a four-year coaching tenure marked by success on the recruiting trails, but underachieving squads and rumors of impropriety.

"As of 1:00 p.m. today, I am resigning as head basketball coach at the University of Southern California," Floyd's letter read, as obtained and reported by The Clarion-Ledger. "I deeply appreciate the opportunity afforded me by the university, as well as the chance to know and work with some of the finest young men in college athletics."

Floyd had been connected to several high-profile job openings this winter, including an interview that put him at or near the top of the coaching search at Arizona. He also was plagued by reports of recruiting violations involving former star player O.J. Mayo, who played one season in Los Angeles before bolting for the NBA.

The coach did not address the allegations in his letter to Garrett, but did offer an explanation for the resignation, writing, "I no longer feel I can offer the level of enthusiasm to my duties that is deserved by the university, my coaching staff, my players, their families, and the supporters of Southern Cal."

Floyd, after successful collegiate stints at Idaho, New Orleans and Iowa State, coached the Chicago Bulls and New Orleans Hornets in the NBA, never quite reaching the lofty heights he set in the college game.

He returned to college with USC, and he led it to three straight NCAA Tournament appearances, including a trip to the Sweet 16 in 2007. The Trojans bowed out to eventual NCAA runner-up Michigan State in the second round this past season.

Floyd was in the final year of his original five-year contract signed with USC. He was reportedly slated to make approximately $850,000 this season.