Former University of Hawaii basketball coach Gib Arnold sent a statement to the media late Wednesday night regarding the Circuit Court lawsuit brought against him by the university.

In a move announced earlier Wednesday, UH claimed the fired coach did not pay the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas $2,132 for a team road trip in 2012 after Arnold was advanced $2,435 in expenses.

In addition, the suit seeks damages for Arnold’s performance while coaching and a declaration against his claim for $1.4 million in liquidated damages resulting from his termination last October.

Arnold’s response was as follows:

"I find the UH lawsuit to be ridiculous and pathetic. The hotel bill was from 3 years ago and not even in my name nor did I set up the reservation. I only was asked to leave my credit card. My exit checklist after being terminated without cause included a section on being clear of any outstanding bills. Human Resource did not bring up any issues at that time and cleared me. I have never personally been contacted by the UH about this. The only contact came years later from their attorney who they are paying tens and (sic) thousands of dollars to chase down a two thousand dollar billing error by the Palms. It just doesn’t make sense. If I or one of my Assistants owe it we will be happy to pay it, in fact UH can deduct it from the 1.4 million they owe me."

Separately from the $1.4 million grievance, UH and Arnold are scheduled to meet with the NCAA next month in Indianapolis.