Report: UConn's Kevin Ollie removes himself from running for gig with Thunder

UConn head basketball coach Kevin Ollie has removed himself from consideration for the same position with the NBA's Oklahoma City Thunder, according to Jon Rothstein of CBS Sports.

Ollie was considered one of the top candidates for the position in the wake of Scott Brooks's firing Wednesday. Ollie has guided the Huskies to a 72-33 record in three seasons with the program, winning a national championship in 2014.

Related: Thunder GM says team would consider NCAA coach

Ollie released a statement Wednesday in which he declared his intention to stay at UConn amid rumors he was interested in making the move to the NBA.

There is strong buyout language in Ollie's contract which would have him owing the university between $1 million and $5 million should he take an NBA job.

He played for the Thunder from 2009-10 under Brooks, and is said to be highly regarded within the organization.

Florida head coach Billy Donovan is now considered the front runner to land the job.