LUBBOCK (October 4, 2012) -- A person familiar with the decision tells The Associated Press that associate coach Chris Walker will be the interim head coach at Texas Tech, replacing Billy Gillispie.

The person spoke Thursday on condition of anonymity because a formal announcement had not been made.

Gillispie resigned Sept. 20, citing health concerns and with the university investigating allegations that he mistreated some of his players. He led the Red Raiders to a 8-23 record in his only season in Lubbock.

Walker came to the program this year after two seasons at his alma mater Villanova, where he was an assistant under Jay Wright.

He has 16 years of collegiate coaching experience, including four teams that went to the NCAA tournament.