University of Memphis initiates outside investigation into women's basketball

*In a statement released Wednesday, the University did not specify what the allegations were but it comes after complaints of abuse and harassment. *

“Recognizing that student-athletes are students first, the University of Memphis strives to create an atmosphere that holistically supports their growth and development as a student and as an athlete. Therefore, it is the University’s commitment and responsibility to provide our student-athletes with an opportunity to learn, play and succeed in an environment free from harassment and abuse,” Memphis officials said in a statement. "The University takes complaints of abuse and harassment seriously and investigates when matters are brought to its attention.

https://twitter.com/TheHRReview/status/1146867954379829250

https://twitter.com/TheHRReview/status/1147567878553706497

The nine-page report begins with: “Generally, there is a negative culture and atmosphere surrounding the Program. A number of former student-athletes reported having a poor experience and that the Head Coach’s communication style and approach was not conducive to team-building and high performance.”

They described head coach Melissa McFerrin’s communication style as “intense,” “demeaning,” “insensitive” and sometimes even “racist,” though there was no proof that those comments were made with ill intent. It also said that she “lacks open dialogue with the team as a whole.”

There were also noted problems with some of the student athletes as well. The report noted a lack of communication and respect for the coaching staff, an unwillingness to embrace requirements of a Division 1 program and a lack of understanding on expectations.

Higher up, the Pictor Group claimed that the school and former athletic director Tom Bowen hadn’t done their job when it came to supporting the program.

“The athletics administration has not provided the necessary support and direction for the women’s basketball program in recent years. It appears that the relationship between the former Athletics Director and the Head Women’s Basketball Coach deteriorated significantly due to promises that were made and not kept, and a lack of honesty and accountability.”

They specifically noted that the women’s basketball facilities were not on par with those of the men’s.

The report concluded 11 recommendations for program management, and 13 recommendations for McFerrin moving forward, although it stops short of saying that she should be relieved of duty.