Softball coach Patrick Murphy had a change of heart on Sunday and decided to come back to the University of Alabama after agreeing to be the head coach at LSU on Thursday.

In a statement released by the university, Murphy said, “First, I want to thank everyone at the University of Alabama – the administration, the players and the support staff – for their support over the last few days. I have tremendous respect for the University of Alabama and for LSU. LSU offered me a great opportunity, but I realized once I got there that I had made a mistake that had nothing to do with LSU. I realized that I belong at Alabama. Alabama is where my heart is and I cannot in good conscience try to do a job in which I am not totally committed beyond any doubt. I can honestly say that the last few days have only made it clear that Alabama is where I want to be – beyond any doubt. It would have been totally unfair to everyone at LSU – especially the players – for me to be conflicted at all about where I was.”

Murphy also said LSU was great in handling the situation and they had nothing to do with him leaving.

“I appreciate everything LSU did,” Murphy said. “They did everything in a first class manner. This change of heart is not in any way a reflection on anyone at LSU. It is solely something that I am responsible for. I can only convey to everyone my deepest apologies for putting all of those who care about both of these programs through a difficult time. In my heart, I know that this is the right thing for me to do.”

Athletic director Mal Moore said, “I am glad to see that he has had a change of heart, because I have always known that he is one of the finest coaches in America.”

Murphy led Alabama to a 53-11 record this past season that included a third place finish at the Women’s College World Series and a second consecutive Southeastern Conference regular season title. Under his direction in 2011, Murphy had four players earn NFCA All-American honors and five garner All-SEC accolades, including two-time SEC Pitcher of the Year Kelsi Dunne.

In 13 seasons at Alabama, Murphy has racked up a 712-210 overall record and a 287-86 record in SEC play. He has also led the Crimson Tide to seven Women’s College World Series, seven SEC championships (four tournament and three regular season) and a postseason berth every season.

Alyson Habetz, Alabama’s associate head coach, who joined Murphy at LSU, will also return as part of the staff.