It seems like there is always at least one abuse/racism scandal throughout the college sporting world at least once over the summer. It seems like the next scandal comes to us from the University of Illinois as former women’s players have accused their old coaches of exactly that.
In a report by College Basketball Talk, Jacqui Grant, Taylor Gleason, and Taylor Tucker, all of who have either transferred or graduated, all contacted the Chicago Tribune accusing head coach Matt Bollant and associate head coach Mike Divilbiss of physical and emotional abuse, mistreating injuries, and making racist remarks.
The situation just got stickier for the Illini coaching staff. From the Tribune:
The letters also noted that Bollant and Divilbiss created racial tension among players by derogatorily noting the race of Illini players and opponents and attributing racial stereotypes to each. The families allege black players mostly recruited by former coach Jolette Laws, who was fired by Thomas, at one point were called “crabs” by the current coaches.
One letter alleges that coaches considered having separate practices for African-American players.
An allegation of “sexual inappropriateness” also was levied against Divilbiss.
Divilbiss has already left the program while Bollant is not yet facing disciplinary action. The university has released a statement saying that they found “no violation of applicable law or university policy had occurred.”
Can’t get enough of Campus Sports? Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram to stay updated with the latest news and exclusive giveaways!
*Featured Photo (above) credit to USA TODAY Sports
