That his future at the university is uncertain, and this case is likely to continue to dominate headlines in the coming weeks.
Florida Gators head basketball coach Todd Golden has issued a statement acknowledging an ongoing university
investigation into allegations of sexual harassment, stalking, and exploitation, including claims from multiple
women. The allegations, first reported by the *Independent Florida Alligator*, have sparked intense media attention
and legal concerns for the 39-year-old coach, who has denied the charges and is now considering defamation claims
against his accusers.
The investigation centers around accusations from a Title IX complaint filed on September 27, which alleges that
Golden engaged in unwanted sexual advances through Instagram, made inappropriate requests for sexual favors,
and sent explicit photos and videos to women, including students. The complaint also mentions incidents of stalking,
where Golden allegedly took photos of women without their consent and showed up at locations where he knew they
would be.
Golden, who signed a lucrative two-year contract extension in March that raised his annual salary to $4 million,
confirmed the ongoing inquiry in a statement released Saturday, emphasizing that he had been fully cooperating
with the university’s confidential investigation. He also indicated that he had retained legal counsel to explore the
possibility of pursuing defamation claims while the investigation is still active.
“For the last month, I have actively participated in and respected the confidentiality of an ongoing school inquiry,”
Golden said in his statement. “I have recently engaged attorney Ken Turkel to advise me on my ability to bring
defamation claims while this confidential investigation is ongoing.” Golden added that his family had appreciated the
support they had received and expressed confidence that the university would complete its review soon.
Golden, who has been with the Gators since 2021 and is in his third season as head coach, is currently preparing his
team for their next matchup against Grambling State, and he is expected to continue coaching the 21st-ranked
Florida Gators as the investigation unfolds. Golden’s tenure in Gainesville has seen some success, with a 42-29
record, and his current roster is considered to be the most talented he has had during his time at the university.
The allegations against Golden are part of a broader pattern of serious misconduct claims that have plagued the
athletics department at the University of Florida under athletic director Scott Stricklin’s leadership. In 2021,
women’s basketball coach Cam Newbauer was allowed to resign following accusations of verbal, physical, and mental
abuse against players and staff, receiving a significant buyout in the process. Less than a year later, women’s soccer
coach Tony Amato was fired amid an investigation into allegations regarding his behavior toward players, including
inappropriate comments about body image and eating habits.
Stricklin’s tenure has also been marked by controversy surrounding NCAA investigations. In 2020, the Gators
football program was placed on probation for the first time in three decades, a situation exacerbated by a show-cause
order for then-head coach Dan Mullen. More recently, Stricklin’s department has been embroiled in a legal dispute
involving former quarterback recruit Jaden Rashada and a failed name, image, and likeness deal worth nearly $14
million.
As for Golden, the investigation into his alleged behavior has put both his career and the future of Florida’s
basketball program in jeopardy. With the university unable to comment on specific Title IX complaints, much of the
information about the investigation has come through leaks and media reports. The outcome of this inquiry could
significantly impact Golden’s ability to continue coaching at Florida and may affect his standing in the broader
basketball community.
