The Jackson (Miss.) Clarion-Ledger reported the letter stated that while he deeply appreciated the opportunity afforded him by the university, he was quitting.
"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," he said in the letter.
The newspaper said Floyd had been bothered by reports of recruiting violations involving former star player O.J. Mayo, who played one season for Southern Cal before going to the NBA.
Floyd also coached college basketball at Idaho, New Orleans and Iowa State, and was coach of the NBA Chicago Bulls and New Orleans Hornets.
He returned to college with USC, leading the Trojans to three straight NCAA Tournament appearances, including a trip to the Sweet 16 in 2007. The Trojans lost 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.
Copyright 2009 by United Press International.
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