The University of Florida’s men’s basketball coach Todd Golden returned to the court Monday night amid a cloud of controversy. Golden, in his first public appearance since acknowledging an ongoing school inquiry into sexual harassment and stalking allegations against him, received one of the loudest ovations of the night during pregame introductions as the 20th-ranked Gators took on Grambling State.
“I thought it was great,” Golden said of the crowd’s reception. “I thought [fans] were as usual, and obviously during the current circumstances, I appreciate it.” The 39-year-old coach shook hands with his assistants and received several hugs from players and Grambling State coach Donte’ Jackson. Golden’s wife, Megan, and their two children sat behind the bench in a show of support.
Allegations and Inquiry
The Independent Florida Alligator, a student-run newspaper, reported last Friday that the university was investigating Golden for allegations of sexual harassment, sexual exploitation, stalking, and cyberstalking multiple women, including students. The paper cited a Title IX complaint filed against Golden on September 27.
According to the report, the claims include unwanted sexual advances on Instagram, requesting sexual favors, and sending photos and videos of his genitalia. On more than one occasion, Golden allegedly took photos of women walking or driving and sent those pictures to the subjects involved. The alleged stalking incidents also involved Golden showing up at locations where he knew the women would be present.
In response to the allegations, Golden said, “Obviously, in this situation, due process and to continue to support guys, and I just would hope that they would allow the process to take place and see where it ends up.” He urged female fans to be patient as the inquiry unfolds.
Team Response and Performance
Despite the ongoing controversy, Golden expressed confidence in his team and coaching staff. “Our staff’s done a great job. Our guys have done a good job. We’ve spent a lot of time together over the last couple days and continue to prepare for what we have in front of us,” he said.
The Gators responded with their best first half of the season against Grambling State, with five players scoring in double figures. Golden attributed their strong performance to the team’s maturity and focus.
“I think they know who I am and, again, they’re mature,” Golden said. “They’re all really good guys and all super focused. We had really good practices. We had a great shoot-around and I thought they were all really locked in. I felt like we were going to play really well.”
Moving Forward
As the school inquiry continues, it remains to be seen how the allegations will impact Golden’s coaching career and the University of Florida’s basketball program. Golden, who previously said he is considering “defamation claims,” has urged patience and respect for due process.
The coach acknowledged that the past few days have been “challenging,” but he remains focused on his family, his team, and his coaching staff. “What’s personally getting me through this right now?” Golden said. “Respecting the situation, my family, my team, my coaching staff. We’re just continuing to attack it like we normally would every day.”
For now, Golden and the Gators will continue their season, with their next game against Florida State on Friday. As the university investigates the serious allegations against the coach, the basketball program and its fans await the outcome and the potential ramifications for all involved.
