Six former University of Pittsburgh women's basketball players have filed lawsuits against the school and head coach Tory Verdi, alleging Title IX violations and emotional abuse. The suits claim Verdi created a hostile environment through psychological manipulation and retaliation. The university denies the allegations, stating they are without merit.
On Friday, six former players—Favor Ayodele, Raeven Boswell, Makayla Elmore, Brooklynn Miles, Isabella Perkins, and Jasmine Timmerson—filed individual civil suits in U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania. Represented by attorney Keenan Holmes, the plaintiffs accuse the University of Pittsburgh and coach Tory Verdi of violating Title IX by fostering a discriminatory and abusive environment. The lawsuits detail emotional, psychological, and physical abuse, including retaliation when players raised concerns to staff.
Specific incidents cited include Verdi allegedly telling the team after a 2023-24 practice, 'Every night I lay in bed I want to kill myself because of you.' He is also accused of directing xenophobic remarks to a foreign-born player, saying 'ICE is coming' and telling her to 'go back home.' Other allegations involve mocking players' appearances, such as commenting on weight and suggesting one looked pregnant, and exploiting racial divisions by disciplining players of color more harshly. Perkins and Ayodele claimed they were denied adequate medical care while injured, with Verdi ignoring their needs and isolating them from support.
The suits further allege Verdi made gender-based comments, calling some players 'bad people' and saying they were not liked as athletes but would be 'acceptable to date his son.' When players reported issues, Verdi reportedly reduced their playing time and dismissed them from the team. The plaintiffs state they suffered mental health issues, academic disruptions, and lost eligibility as a result.
Holmes stated, 'Our clients look forward to having their claims addressed through the judicial process, where the facts can be fully developed and evaluated.' The university responded, 'The allegations are without merit and will be vigorously defended.'
Verdi has coached the Pittsburgh Panthers since 2023, following a successful stint at Massachusetts. The team has struggled under him, posting records of 8-24, 13-19, and currently 8-17 (1-11 in ACC), with an eight-game losing streak. The Panthers host Syracuse on Thursday.
