Pitt Women’s Basketball Coach Sued for Alleged Abusive Conduct
A lawsuit filed by six former University of Pittsburgh women’s basketball players alleges a pattern of abusive coaching methods under head coach Tory Verdi, with claims that attempts to address the issues were ignored by the school.
Six former players have initiated legal action against Coach Verdi and the University of Pittsburgh, alleging a toxic environment that extended far beyond the typical demands of collegiate athletics. The lawsuit, filed Friday, details accusations of verbal abuse, threats to athletic scholarships, and racially charged practices.
Players Detail Allegations of Abuse
According to the legal complaint, the alleged misconduct created a deeply distressing environment for the athletes. A lawyer representing the plaintiffs, Keenan D. Holmes, emphasized the severity of the situation, stating, “These players aren’t soft. We aren’t talking about sensitive personality types. Obviously, there are expectations placed on players. But this went beyond basketball. It went beyond the bounds of common decency.”
The lawsuit alleges Verdi attempted to coerce players into entering the transfer portal, jeopardizing their scholarships and future athletic careers. Disturbingly, the complaint includes specific instances of alleged verbal abuse. Verdi reportedly told his Pitt players, “Every night I lay in bed I want to kill myself because of you.” He is also alleged to have made inappropriate comments to one athlete, stating, “I don’t like you as a player, but I’d let my son date you.”
Furthermore, the lawsuit claims Verdi engaged in divisive practices, allegedly dividing players by race and forcing them to compete against each other in practice. The emotional toll on the players has been significant, with some now undergoing counseling or therapy, and others seeking a redshirt year of NCAA eligibility due to mental health concerns.
Former Players and Current Status
The six former players involved in the lawsuit include:
- Favor Ayodele, currently at Grand Canyon University
- Raeven Boswell, who remained at Pitt to complete her degree after leaving the team
- Isabella Perkins, now a student at Boston College
- Jasmine Timmerson, currently playing for Davidson College
- MaKayla Elmore and Brooklynn Miles, who transferred to Pitt for their senior years.
The players reportedly made repeated attempts to seek assistance from Verdi’s superiors within the athletic department, but their concerns were allegedly dismissed.
University Response and Legal Battle Ahead
The University of Pittsburgh issued a brief statement Tuesday, asserting its defense against the allegations. “The university is aware of these lawsuits and their allegations, which are without merit and will be vigorously defended,” the statement read.
Verdi’s tenure at Pitt has been challenging, following a successful seven-season run at the University of Massachusetts. The outcome of this legal battle could have significant implications for the university, Verdi’s career, and the broader landscape of Title IX enforcement in collegiate athletics. The plaintiffs are seeking an acknowledgment of civil rights violations, restoration of their school records and reputations, and both compensatory and punitive damages.
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