SPOKANE, Wash. – The Utah women’s basketball team, led by coach Lynne Roberts, faced a troubling ordeal during their time at the NCAA tournament in Spokane. Roberts disclosed that the team encountered a series of “racial hate crimes” upon arriving at their designated hotel, prompting concerns for their safety. The incidents took place after Utah’s loss to Gonzaga in the tournament’s second round.
Following the unsettling experiences, Utah, along with South Dakota State and UC Irvine, were staying at hotels in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, due to limited accommodations in the Spokane area. The lack of available space was attributed to the city hosting both the men’s NCAA tournament and a regional youth volleyball tournament simultaneously. This situation forced Gonzaga, the host school, to seek a waiver from the NCAA to house visiting teams in Coeur d’Alene.
Roberts emphasized the impact of racism on her team, expressing shock and dismay at the discriminatory actions they encountered. She highlighted the diverse nature of university settings and athletics, making the incidents all the more unsettling for the players and staff. The NCAA and Gonzaga promptly took action to address the situation and ensure the team’s safety during the tournament.
The unfortunate events cast a shadow over what should have been a positive and celebratory experience for the Utah women’s basketball program. Gonzaga, in response to the incidents, expressed deep regret and reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all participants in the tournament. The university emphasized that the integrity and values they uphold were not reflected in the incidents that transpired.
Roberts underscored the need for a safe and inclusive tournament environment, where players and staff from all backgrounds can feel secure and valued. The incidents served as a stark reminder of the reality of racism and its detrimental impact on individuals and communities. Moving forward, efforts to address and prevent such occurrences in sports and broader societal contexts remain crucial to fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity.