Controversial coach Beckman volunteering with North Carolina

Former Illinois head coach Tim Beckman, who was fired after a school investigation found he mistreated players, is volunteering as an assistant for North Carolina.

Tar Heels officials confirmed the new partnership Wednesday, according to Andrew Carter of the Charlotte Observer. Since he's a volunteer, there's no hiring process for Beckman.

Beckman was fired by the Fighting Illini in 2014, when the university determined he influenced medical decisions and pressured injured student-athletes to play while hurt.

He and North Carolina head coach Larry Fedora worked together at Oklahoma State in 2007.

Illinois posted a 12-25 record in Beckman's three seasons. He's been out of work since he parted ways with Illinois, though he settled a wrongful termination lawsuit against the school in April for $250,000.