The Florida men’s basketball team beat Grambling State Monday night with Todd Golden on the sidelines in his usual role as head coach.
Golden continues to be the Gators’ head coach despite a Title IX investigation into allegations of sexual harassment and stalking. According to a report from The AlligatoLast week, Golden was accused of sexual harassment and stalking against several women. These women would include current and former students from Florida.
The 39-year-old coach described the last few days as “difficult” and was asked during his post-match press conference what he would say to the women’s fans.
“Obviously in this situation, due process and continuing to support our guys and I just hope they let the process play out and see where it goes,” Said Golden.
According to the report, Golden is accused “on more than one occasion” of taking photos of women while they were driving or walking and then sending those photos to them via social media. A woman accused Golden, who is married, of sending her a photo of his genitals.
After the report was released, Florida made no decision to suspend Golden or place him on leave. The third-year coach released a statement Saturday confirming the existence of an “investigation” and saying he had consulted with an attorney regarding possible defamation claims.
“Over the past month, I have actively participated in and respected the confidentiality of an ongoing school investigation,” the statement said. “I recently retained Ken Turkel to advise me on my ability to file defamation claims while this confidential investigation is underway. My family and I appreciate the support we have received and remain confident that the university will continue its efforts to complete its review expeditiously.
Golden was also asked after Monday’s 86-62 victory if he was worried about how his situation would affect his players. He said he felt good about them going into the game.
“I wasn’t necessarily worried, I think they know who I am and, again, they’re mature, they’re all really good guys and all super focused,” Golden said. “We had some really good practices and we had a great shoot today, they were locked in.”
