When it comes to shocking sports incidents, this one takes the cake! Coach Lynne Roberts dropped a bombshell revealing that Utah Utes players were subjected to racial slurs, including the derogatory n-word, at their team hotel during the Women’s NCAA Tourney. The contrast between the excitement of tournament play and the abhorrent behavior displayed towards these athletes is truly mind-boggling. This revelation highlights a stark reality in the sporting world, where discrimination can rear its ugly head even in high-stakes competitions.
The situation unfolded within the confines of the limited hotel space, where teams from various universities were accommodated. The incident not only tarnished the reputation of the host school but also shed light on underlying issues of diversity and inclusion in sports environments.
Utes head coach Lynne Roberts revealed the cruel acts following their 2nd round loss to 4-seeded Gonzaga on Monday, claiming they had to relocate the entire team from their hotel in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho over the incredibly offensive treatment.
“We had several instances of some kind of racial hate crimes towards our program,” Roberts said during the post-game press conference. “Incredibly upsetting for all of us.”
“You know, you think in our world, in athletics and university settings, it’s shocking in a … like there is so much diversity on a college campus and so you’re just not exposed to that very often.”
Charmelle Green, Utes Deputy Athletic Director, also told KSL that strangers allegedly yelled the N-word towards them while the players, band, and cheerleading team were walking to a restaurant for dinner, as well as when they left.
“We all just were in shock, and we looked at each other like, did we just hear that? Everybody was in shock. Our cheerleaders, our students that were in that area that heard it clearly were just frozen,” Green said.
“We kept walking, just shaking our heads, like I can’t believe that.”
Thankfully the NCAA and Gonzaga were able to move the team to a hotel in Spokane … and the Bulls athletic department released a statement saying they were “frustrated and deeply saddened” by the intolerable events.
The University of Utah has filed a police report.
Coach Lynne Roberts’ swift response and the decision to switch hotels underscore the necessity for zero tolerance towards racism in sports. Moving forward, advocating for inclusivity and actively combating racism should be at the forefront of our actions to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all athletes.
Flip to the next page to watch Lynne Roberts speak and reactions…