The Utah Utes women’s basketball team was subjected to racial slurs and what the team has termed as ‘racial hate crimes’ at their hotel during the tournament. The incident was as shocking as it was hurtful, revealing an ugly side of society that is rarely seen in such settings.
Utes head coach Lynne Roberts was the one to disclose the unfortunate events. She expressed her shock and disappointment following their 2nd round loss to 4-seeded Gonzaga. According to Roberts, they had to move the entire team from their hotel in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho due to the offensive treatment they received.
“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.”
Adding to the narrative, Charmelle Green, Utes Deputy Athletic Director, shared an equally disturbing account. Green mentioned that unknown individuals allegedly used the N-word towards them while the players, band, and cheerleading team were going to a restaurant for dinner, and also when they left.
“We all just were in shock, and we looked at each other like, did we just hear that? Our cheerleaders, our students that were in that area that heard it clearly were just frozen,” Green recalled.
The team was understandably taken aback by the incident. A state of shock prevailed among the players, cheerleaders, and students who heard the offensive slurs. Despite the horrifying experience, they decided to continue walking, trying to digest the shocking reality of what they had just heard.
Given the severity of the situation, the NCAA and Gonzaga took immediate action to move the team to a hotel in Spokane for their safety and comfort.
The NCAA and Gonzaga expressed their concern and disapproval of the incident. They were able to quickly arrange for the team’s relocation to Spokane. A statement was also released by the Bulls athletic department, expressing their frustration and deep sorrow over the intolerable events.
The University of Utah did not remain silent on the matter either. They have filed a police report and are awaiting further action.
Following the incident, a police report was filed by the University of Utah. This move indicates the seriousness of the matter and the intention to seek justice for the team.
Such incidents of racial abuse are not only deeply offensive but also have long-lasting implications on the victims. It is crucial that strict actions are taken against the perpetrators to ensure such incidents do not recur.