Former Syracuse assistant basketball coach Bernie Fine is dropping his defamation lawsuit against ESPN.

Fine was suing the sports network for defamation stemming from a story they aired. The story reported the claims by two former ball boys that Fine had molested them more than two decades ago. Fine was fired in November 2011, days after the broadcasts.

Fine, who was investigated by federal prosecutors, was never charged and has maintained his innocence.

ESPN says that their was no settlement in the case what-so-ever. 

"Given the continued pendency of the Laurie Fine matter, which we will continue to defend vigorously, we will not discuss litigation. We can confirm this action is not the result of a settlement and that Bernie Fine or his lawyers would have to be contacted regarding their reasons for doing this," an ESPN spokesman said.

Fine's attorneys issued a statement that said:

"On Tuesday, July 2, 2013, Bernie Fine filed a voluntary Notice of Dismissal of his lawsuit against ESPN, ending all litigation. Although Mr. Fine and his attorneys are convinced that his legal claim has merit, Mr. Fine desires to finally put all of the turmoil of the past year and a half behind him, so that he may concentrate on his future as well as the future of his family. Mr. Fine has been and continues to be overwhelmed by the many, many friends who have stood by him and who provided him with the strength to get through the most difficult time in his life. He will be forever grateful for their support and friendship."

I think we all can read between the lines here.