Cam Newbauer, former Florida women's basketball coach, was accused of creating a hostile environment, which included intimidation and verbal abuse, as well as racist comments.
In a Monday story published by The Independent Florida Alligator, players spoke out about their claims. This story also included numerous instances in which parents or players complained to administrators long before Newbauer resigned last July.
Tuesday's statement by Scott Stricklin, Florida athletic director, acknowledged that concerns had been raised to the administrators. Newbauer was asked for "corrective actions."
Stricklin stated in the statement that it was his responsibility to offer a championship experience with integrity and the support necessary for Gators student-athletes.
"The University of Florida values are not in conflict with the culture of the women's team under Cam Newbauer, as described in The Independent Florida Alligator article.
"There were times when Coach Newbauer's tenure was not perfect. We were notified of these concerns. Cam was contacted directly to address the concerns. We required corrective actions, and set clear expectations for behavior going forward. The UAA also provided increased administrative oversight and presence in the program, and sought anonymous feedback from student-athletes as well as staff.
"Ultimately, we didn't see the improvements required, so Coach Newbauer discussed the matter and he decided to resign."
Newbauer was 46-71 over four seasons as head coach and made zero NCAA tournament appearances. He cited personal reasons when he decided to resign. Newbauer, Stricklin’s first hire in Florida, was made in March 2017. Although Stricklin stated that he knew of the allegations, Newbauer was Stricklin's first hire at Florida in March 2017.
Stricklin stated that Cam is building his program in the right way and making steady improvements when the extension was made. It's crucial that he has the time to make that progress.
Players in the Alligator story described multiple occasions when Newbauer threw a basketball at players, including one at a player’s head and another at an injured player's leg. Numerous players reported verbal abuse and bullying from Newbauer, where he criticized them for not being smart enough, not deserving their scholarships, or complaining all the time.
Former player Cydneekinslow said that he would make them cry. Push until they cry, whatever it was. He tried. Pushing people through walls to make them stronger is a way to get past their breaking point. Cameron Newbauer was the one who did it.
Kinslow also described discriminatory comments Kinslow made toward Black players. Kinslow said that he liked their hair, but wouldn't touch the part because he knew it wasn't his job to. According to the report, Newbauer also ordered his assistant coaches take two Black freshmen shopping, as he didn't think their clothes were appropriate.
