Western Kentucky men’s basketball coach Rick Stansbury recorded a video message for fans updating his health status before Saturday’s home game against Florida International at E.A. Diddle Arena.

In the brief video released on the WKU Hilltopper Basketball Twitter account, Stansbury did not directly address the undisclosed health issue that has kept him away from the program since shortly after the Tops’ road game against South Carolina on Dec. 22, but did thank fans “for their thoughts and prayers over these last few weeks.”

Stansbury has missed the past six WKU games, with associate head coach Phil Cunningham leading the team as interim head coach in his absence.

“I know there hasn’t been a lot of information released on my health,” Stansbury said. “I’m doing well and I look forward to returning to the team real soon once my doctor has cleared me.”

Stansbury, 63, is in his seventh season leading the WKU men’s program.

In the video message, he thanked his staff and players for their work in his absence.

“I know it’s a difficult time for them, but they’ve stepped up and they’ve really led,” Stansbury said. “Most important, I want to thank our players.

“You’ve heard me say many a time the kind of young men we have on this team and and the character they have, and they’ve kind of demonstrated that over these last few weeks, and I’m awfully proud of them. Again, look forward to getting back and supporting them real soon.”

In Stansbury’s absence, Cunningham has led the Hilltoppers to a 3-3 record, including three straight wins heading into Monday’s home game against league-leading Florida Atlantic.

WKU improved to 11-6 overall and 3-3 in Conference USA play this season after Saturday night’s 70-59 win against Florida International.