The University of Florida men’s basketball program is under intense scrutiny as Title IX investigations continue into allegations involving head coach Todd Golden and, more recently, assistant coach Taurean Green. The university is conducting inquiries to determine the validity of these claims. It is important to note that all allegations are unproven at this time, and no guilt or wrongdoing has been established.
New Allegations Against Assistant Coach Taurean Green
Florida men's basketball assistant and former player Taurean Green is facing sexual assault allegations filed by an employee in the athletic department, per ESPN. https://t.co/IOPuijcBM2 pic.twitter.com/LcfRdf3GOq
— On3 (@On3sports) January 17, 2025
On Tuesday, a University of Florida athletics department employee filed a Title IX complaint against assistant coach Taurean Green. According to ESPN’s investigative reporter Paula Lavigne, the woman alleged that in March 2024, Green arranged a meeting in the school’s athletic facilities, where he attempted to kiss her and initiated unwanted physical advances. She reported pulling away and leaving the situation.
Green, a former Florida player who was instrumental in the Gators’ back-to-back national championships in 2006 and 2007, has not commented on the allegations. Florida spokesperson Steve Orlando stated, “The law prohibits us from commenting on the existence or status of investigations. The University of Florida takes these matters seriously and conducts a thorough and deliberate process that ensures due process for everyone.”
The complainant said she chose to come forward after Title IX investigators contacted her about concerns involving Golden, suggesting there may be broader patterns of behavior.
Ongoing Investigation into Head Coach Todd Golden
The allegations against Green follow a September 2024 Title IX complaint filed against head coach Todd Golden. This complaint included accusations of sexual harassment, stalking, and other misconduct. Golden has denied these allegations and stated he is cooperating with investigators.
According to ESPN, the claims against Golden include allegations of sending inappropriate photos, making unwanted advances on social media, and showing up uninvited at locations where he expected the complainants to be present. Golden will continue to coach the Gators while the investigation proceeds.
Ken Turkel represents Todd Goldin and declined to comment.
Florida Athletics Responds
The University of Florida’s athletics department has faced mounting pressure and deputy athletics director Amy Meyers Hass declined to comment on the specifics of the allegations; citing confidentiality. The department insists it is committed to a thorough and fair investigation process.
Florida contracted Grand River Solutions, a private firm specializing in Title IX investigations, to oversee the inquiries.
Disclaimer
This article reports on allegations that are currently under investigation. No conclusions have been reached, and all individuals involved are entitled to due process. Allegations of this nature should be approached with care to ensure fairness for all parties.
What’s Next for Florida Basketball?
Florida’s men’s basketball team, currently ranked fifth in the AP Top 25 with a 15-2 record, faces uncertainty as the investigations proceed. These issues raise broader questions about accountability and culture within collegiate athletics, with potential ramifications for Florida and beyond.
While these allegations remain unproven, they have thrust the Florida men’s basketball program into the spotlight for reasons far removed from its on-court success. Further updates will be given as they become available.
Credit to Paula Lavigne, ESPN Investigative Reporter, for detailed reporting on this story.