Purdue women’s basketball coach Sharon Versyp under investigation

Purdue University is investigating allegations made against women’s basketball coach Sharon Versyp that she created a “toxic and hostile environment.”

The document detailing the investigation, obtained by the Journal & Courier, also cites Terry Kix, Purdue’s director of women’s basketball operations, in several incidents.

Versyp is alleged to have created a “toxic and hostile environment” by verbally attacking players, using personal information to “bring them down” and “bullying” a member of her coaching staff. The document also says that Versyp was “fully aware of Ms. Kix’s conduct,” allowing it to continue.

Kix’s conduct allegedly includes cussing out players and hitting a player’s arm hard enough to knock a cell phone out of her hand.

The University’s Office of Institutional Equity is overseeing the investigation to determine if Versyp violated the school’s anti-harassment policy.

Versyp, the program’s all-time winningest coach, is set to begin her 16th and final season with the Boilermakers. Former Boilermaker star Katie Gearlds is already in line to replace Versyp next season after serving as associate head coach this year.

At the end of last season, five players with remaining eligibility transferred out of the program. Assistant coach Melanie Balcomb also left the team shortly after the season ended in March even though her contract ran through June 30, 2021.