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Todd Golden receives warm ovation in 1st game since sexual harassment allegations
By Andrew Olson
Published:
Todd Golden received applause and cheers when introduced on Monday night ahead of tipoff between Florida and Grambling. Monday’s game is the first since a bombshell story by student newspaper The Independent Florida Alligator revealed a Title IX complaint regarding alleged instances of sexual harassment and stalking of UF students by the Gator basketball head coach.
UF beat reporters in Gainesville recorded the moment Golden was announced over the PA at Exactech Arena during team introductions.
Gators coach Todd Golden gets a nice ovation pic.twitter.com/iOMN8RCDAd
— Mark Long (@APMarkLong) November 12, 2024
Per The Alligator, UF received a Title IX complaint on Sept. 27. The Alligator reports that claims against Golden include unwanted sexual advances on Instagram, requesting sexual favors and sending photos and videos of his genitalia while traveling for UF. Golden was also accused of stalking, allegedly taking photos of women walking or driving and sending those pictures to the subjects involved.
UF has stated that it cannot comment on allegations against Golden due to the Title IX investigation. Golden released a statement Saturday. Florida confirmed Sunday that his coaching status had not changed.
Golden’s statement did not include a denial but referenced potential legal action for defamation.
“For the last month, I have actively participated in and respected the confidentiality of an ongoing school inquiry,” Golden wrote in a note posted to social media.
“I have recently engaged Ken Turkel to advise me on my ability to bring defamation claims while this confidential investigation is ongoing. My family and I appreciate the support we have received and remain confident the university will continue its efforts to finish its review promptly.”
Golden, 39, was hired at Florida ahead of the 2022-23 season. He is 42-29 in his UF tenure, taking the Gators to the 2024 NCAA Tournament and guiding the team to a 2-0 start to the 2024-25 campaign.
Andrew writes about sports to fund his love of live music and collection of concert posters. He strongly endorses the Hall of Fame campaigns of Fred Taylor and Andruw Jones.
