Former Pitt Women's Basketball Players Allege Abuse, Toxicity in Title IX Lawsuits

Six ex-players sue coach Tory Verdi and the University of Pittsburgh over alleged abusive coaching methods and ignored pleas for help.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Six former players on the University of Pittsburgh women's basketball team have filed lawsuits against coach Tory Verdi and the university, alleging abusive coaching methods, attempts to force players into the transfer portal, and a failure to address their concerns. The players say Verdi's behavior went "beyond basketball" and "beyond the bounds of common decency", with some now seeking counseling or a redshirt year due to mental health issues.

Why it matters

The allegations raise serious concerns about the treatment of student-athletes and the university's response to reported abuse, which could have significant implications under Title IX laws prohibiting gender-based discrimination in education. The case also highlights the broader issue of abusive coaching practices in college sports.

The details

According to the lawsuits, Verdi allegedly told players "Every night I lay in bed I want to kill myself because of you" and "I don't like you as a player, but I'd let my son date you." The coach is also accused of dividing players by race and having them face off in practice. The former players, who now attend other schools, say their efforts to seek help from Verdi's supervisors were ignored.

  • The lawsuits were filed on February 10, 2026.

The players

Tory Verdi

The head coach of the University of Pittsburgh women's basketball team, who is accused of abusive coaching methods in the lawsuits.

Favor Ayodele

A former Pitt player who is now at Grand Canyon University.

Raeven Boswell

A former Pitt player who left the team but stayed at the university to finish her degree.

Isabella Perkins

A former Pitt player who is now a student at Boston College.

Jasmine Timmerson

A former Pitt player who is now playing for Davidson College.

MaKayla Elmore

A former Pitt player who had transferred to the university for her senior year.

Brooklynn Miles

A former Pitt player who had transferred to the university for her senior year.

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What’s next

The University of Pittsburgh has stated it will vigorously defend against the lawsuits, which allege violations of Title IX. The former players are seeking acknowledgment of the school's Title IX violations, restoration of their academic and athletic records, and compensatory and punitive damages.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing issue of abusive coaching practices in college sports and the importance of universities properly addressing allegations of misconduct and supporting student-athletes' mental health. The outcome of these Title IX lawsuits could have significant implications for the treatment of student-athletes nationwide.