U of I Argues Women’s BB Players’ Lawsuit Should Be Dismissed
Coach Matt Bollant and members of the U of I Women's Basketball Team scrimmage at the Ubben Basketball Complex August 5. Jeff Bossert/Illinois Public Media
The University of Illinois is arguing that a judge should dismiss a lawsuit filed by seven former women's basketball players because the school cannot be sued in federal court.
In a motion filed Tuesday, the university argues that the sovereign immunity that prevents the state from being sued in federal court also covers the state university.
The U of I also argues that the plaintiffs have not provided proof of the racial discrimination they allege.
In the lawsuit filed in July, the players accuse basketball coach Matt Bollant and former assistant coach Mike Divilbiss of violating their civil rights by creating a racially hostile environment.
The lawsuit targets the coaches, the university, and athletic director Mike Thomas, and seeks $10 million.
Attorneys for the former players have until November 6 to respond.
Links
- UI Women’s Basketball Coach ‘Thankful’ For Investigation Results
- U of I Chancellor, AD: No Personnel Changes From Women’s Basketball Lawsuit
- “Not Supported By The Information Available”: Report on U Of I Women’s Basketball Charges
- NPR: Latest On Allegations By Former UI Women’s Basketball Players
- Former UI Women’s Basketball Players’ Lawsuit Alleges ‘Racially Hostile Environment’
- UI Women’s Basketball Program Faces Abuse Allegations