Six Former Pitt Women's Basketball Players Sue Coach Tory Verdi

Lawsuits allege abusive coaching methods and ignored pleas for help

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Six former players on the women's basketball team at the University of Pittsburgh have sued coach Tory Verdi and the school over what they call abusive coaching methods and say their efforts to seek help were ignored. The lawsuits allege Verdi used demeaning and threatening language, tried to force players into the transfer portal, and divided the team by race.

Why it matters

This case highlights growing concerns about the treatment of student-athletes, particularly women, and the responsibility of universities to provide a safe and supportive environment for their players. It also raises questions about the oversight and accountability of college coaches, and whether current systems adequately protect players from abuse.

The details

According to the lawsuits, Verdi used abusive language, including telling 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 lawsuits also allege Verdi tried to force players into the transfer portal, putting their scholarships at risk. Some of the players are now in counseling or therapy, and others have sought a red-shirt year of NCAA eligibility based on mental health problems.

  • The lawsuits were filed on Friday, February 11, 2026.

The players

Tory Verdi

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

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 Pitt 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 Pitt for her senior year.

Brooklynn Miles

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

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What’s next

The university has stated it will vigorously defend against the lawsuits, and the legal process will continue to unfold.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for greater oversight and accountability of college coaches, as well as the responsibility of universities to provide a safe and supportive environment for student-athletes. It underscores the importance of addressing issues of abuse and mental health in collegiate sports.