Texas Southern Department Of Athletics Issues Statements Regarding Conference Penalties

From the Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics Kevin Granger;

“The Texas Southern University Department of Athletics respects the decision by the Southwestern Athletic Conference regarding Monday’s unfortunate incident,” said Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics Kevin Granger. “In addition to the SWAC’s policies, what took place on Monday is a direct violation of our department’s policies in regards to sportsmanship and ethical behavior which we expect our student-athletes to adhere to at all times. While the timing of the suspensions are unfortunate, our student-athletes will take ownership of their decisions and the department will assist them going forward to ensure they understand the magnitude of this situation and how it reflects on Texas Southern University in general.”

From head women’s basketball coach Cynthia-Cooper Dyke;

“I was shocked and I am saddened by the altercation that occurred after the Alabama State women’s basketball game,” said head coach Cynthia Cooper-Dyke. “This is not how we want to represent our program, university, conference or women’s basketball. We accept responsibility for our actions and whatever penalties are levied by the conference office. Additionally, we will have a series of ‘conflict resolution’ counseling sessions for our student-athletes to better equip them to handle hostile environments.”

There will be no further comment from Texas Southern.