OLSON MOVES OUT; WIFE RELEASES DIVORCE STATEMENT: Earlier we reported how Lute Olson’s absence from Arizona was due to divorce proceedings. Now the ASSOCIATED PRESS hears from the Wildcat coach’s wife.

Gordon James, a spokesman for Christine Olson, released this statement about the estranged situation: “Our family has been struggling through a difficult and private matter for some months now. It was our hope that during my husband’s temporary leave of absence, we would be able to focus on our family and successfully address this matter.

“Unfortunately, it seems that my husband has reached a decision that he is unable to continue our relationship together during this difficult time. While I am personally devastated, I remain committed to my marriage and will continue to support my husband through this difficult time in his life. I have nothing but love and respect for him.”

Meanwhile, Lute’s lawyer, Leonard Karp, has stated, “The marriage has been irretrievably broken with no reasonable prospect of reconciliation.”

James said Christine was informed of the divorce filing Thursday night. He also reports that Lute has moved out of the family’s house.