Six Female Basketball Players File Federal Lawsuit Against University of Pittsburgh Coach
A college basketball program at the University of Pittsburgh has been plunged into turmoil following the filing of a federal lawsuit by six female players against head coach Tory Verdi. The legal action, submitted to the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania, alleges a pattern of abuse and a hostile environment that the players claim was designed to force them into the transfer portal and jeopardise their future scholarships.
Shocking Allegations of Racial Division and Verbal Abuse
Court documents detail disturbing incidents, including one where Verdi allegedly segregated players by race during practice drills, forcing them to compete against each other. The lawsuit also cites alleged verbal tirades, with claims that Verdi once told the team, "Every night I lay in bed I want to kill myself because of you." In another instance, he purportedly told an athlete, "I don't like you as a player, but I'd let my son date you." Additionally, an international player was allegedly told to "go back home because ICE is coming."
Retaliation and Ignored Pleas for Help
The players assert that their concerns about Verdi were ignored by university staff, and when they raised issues, they faced retaliation through reduced playing time or outright dismissal from the team. Attorney Kennan D. Holmes, representing the six plaintiffs, emphasised that the allegations extend beyond typical tough coaching, stating, "This went beyond basketball. It went beyond the bounds of common decency."
University Denies Claims and Vows to Defend Itself
In response, the University of Pittsburgh has firmly denied the allegations, calling them "without merit" and pledging to vigorously defend against the lawsuit in court. A university statement confirmed awareness of the filings but maintained their position. At present, Verdi remains listed as staff on the university's website, despite the serious accusations.
Players Seek Redress and Mental Health Support
The plaintiffs, identified as Favor Ayodele, Isabella Perkins, Raeven Boswell, Jasmine Timmerson, Makayla Elmore, and Brooklynn Miles, are seeking a redshirt year of NCAA eligibility due to mental health struggles endured under Verdi's leadership. Several have already transferred to other programs, such as Boston College and Davidson, while others are receiving mental health counselling. The lawsuit also demands formal acknowledgement that the university violated the players' civil rights under federal Title IX regulations.
Background on Coach Verdi and Team Performance
Tory Verdi, hired by the Panthers in 2023, has faced challenges on the court, with a record of 29-60, including a disappointing 8-17 run in the current 2026 season. The lawsuit adds a significant off-court controversy to his tenure, potentially impacting the program's reputation and future operations.
