ROCHESTER, Mich - Oakland University Athletics has announced that women's basketball head coach Jeff Tungate will take a medical leave of absence because of pressure on his spinal cord that needed to be immediately released.  

"This is obviously not what I wanted to happen at this point of the season, but another surgery was the only option. We are off to a good start and getting better each week. Our staff will do a great job in my absence and I look forward to rejoining the team as soon as possible," Tungate said.  

Associate Head Coach Ke'Sha Blanton will serve as acting head coach until Tungate returns.  

"Jeff's health and well-being are most important and I wish him well as he recovers from surgery. I look forward to his return to the team. I am confident in Ke'Sha and know that she and assistant coaches Frank Goldsberry and Crystal Davis will build on the team's strong start as the team finishes its non conference schedule and resumes Horizon League play," said Director of Athletics Steve Waterfield.  

Oakland's next game is Monday, Dec. 20 against Marshall in Las Vegas, NV.