Former Indiana basketball players appeal dismissed lawsuit

Players allege mistreatment by former team physician Brad Bomba Sr.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 9:13pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a college basketball game, with players and the court broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of color, conceptually representing the complex legal issues at play.The complex legal battle over alleged medical misconduct in college sports continues, with the players seeking to overturn a recent dismissal of their case.Bloomington Today

A group of former Indiana University basketball players have appealed a recent District Court decision that dismissed their lawsuit against the school. The players allege they were subjected to medically unnecessary, invasive, and sexually abusive rectal examinations by former team physician Brad Bomba Sr. during their time playing for the Hoosiers.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing concerns about player safety and the power dynamics between college athletes and team medical staff. The appeal aims to bring further scrutiny to the university's handling of these allegations and the broader issue of physician misconduct in college sports.

The details

The lawsuit was originally filed by the former players against Indiana University, alleging that Bomba Sr. conducted improper and abusive medical exams during their time on the team. A federal judge recently dismissed the case, prompting the players to file an appeal through their attorney Kathleen DeLaney.

  • The lawsuit was originally filed in 2025.
  • The District Court dismissed the case in April 2026.
  • The players have now filed an appeal of the dismissal.

The players

Kathleen DeLaney

The attorney representing the former Indiana basketball players in this case.

Brad Bomba Sr.

The former Indiana University team physician accused of misconduct by the players.

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What they’re saying

“The former Indiana basketball players who filed a lawsuit against the school alleging mistreatment by former team physician Brad Bomba Sr. have appealed the recent District Court decision dismissing the case.”

— Kathleen DeLaney, Attorney

What’s next

The appeal will now be reviewed by a higher court, which will determine whether the case should be reinstated or the dismissal upheld.

The takeaway

This case underscores the need for greater oversight and accountability in college sports medicine, as well as the challenges student-athletes can face in seeking justice for alleged misconduct by team medical staff.