An independent review of allegations that Illini women’s basketball coaches created a racially hostile atmosphere found the charges are “not supported by the information available,” Chancellor Phyllis Wise said Monday morning.
In a mass email to UI staff, students and faculty, Wise wrote: “The review was extensive, far-reaching and careful — including examination of more than 18,000 documents, 33 interviews, the statements of eight former players, and review of game and practice video footage.”
The investigation began more than two months ago, when the university hired Chicago law firm Pugh, Jones & Johnson to look into seven former players’ allegations that head coach Matt Bollant and since-departed assistant Mike Divilbiss created a racially hostile environment in violation of the Federal Civil Rights Act.