Oklahoma State is doing a good job of sending out mixed messages when it comes to head coach Mike Gundy.

Gundy was recently in the news for the wrong reasons as his attire led to star running back Chuba Hubbard, the nation’s leading returning rusher, announcing he wouldn’t play this season if action wasn’t taken to correct his coach’s lack of awareness. After Hubbard’s comment, several current and former Oklahoma State players voiced their support for the running back while none appeared to back Gundy.

At the heart of the issue was an “OAN” (One America News Network, for those unfamiliar) shirt worn by Gundy. While the player and his coach soon came together and shared a video message putting the issue behind them, Oklahoma State went on to internally review the way Gundy treated his current and former players.

Following the conclusion of that internal review, Oklahoma State AD Mike Holder has issued the following statement:

“We have spent the past couple of weeks reviewing our program and talking with current and former players. Our internal review found that Coach Gundy needs to invest more time in building stronger relationships with his student-athletes. However, our review has uncovered no signs or indication of racism.

“After meeting with Coach Gundy, I am confident that he listened to this student-athletes. I believe he is genuine in his commitment to strengthening relationships with his players. I believe this to be a win for everyone. I’m looking forward to seeing the impact this will have on our team.”

That apparently isn’t the end of the story, however, as Brett McMurphy of Stadium is now reporting that Gundy has been given a pay cut and had the length of his deal shortened by the school following the internal investigation.

“Mike Gundy’s contract shortened from 5-year rollover to 4-years w/pay cut after internal review, sources told @Stadium. In 2019 Gundy made $5.125M. Review launched after RB Chuba Hubbard tweeted “I will not be doing anything w/OSU until things CHANGE” after Gundy wore OAN T-shirt,” McMurphy shared on Friday morning.

That action would suggest Oklahoma State isn’t entirely comfortable with the information it gathered on Gundy yet he’s allowed to stay on to coach?

Again, some pretty mixed messaging being sent by Oklahoma State.