# Former Columbia Stars Demand Stronger Punishment for Coach Griffith

> Ex-athletes push for harsher penalty after coach Megan Griffith's suspension.
- Title: Former Columbia Stars Demand Stronger Punishment for Coach…
- Summary: Ex-athletes push for harsher penalty after coach Megan Griffith's suspension. 15 former Columbia women's basketball players demand meaningful accountability…
- Keywords: columbia women's basketball, megan griffith, former student-athletes, suspension, alleged abuse, mental health neglect, retaliation concerns, ncaa tournament, EssentiallySports
- Source: EssentiallySports — https://essentiallysports.com/ncaa-college-basketball-news-former-columbia-stars-seek-further-punishment-for-megan-griffith-following-her-return-from-suspension
- Author: Akshat Rajput
- Published: 2026-11-13T05:34:31+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: columbia women's basketball, megan griffith, former student-athletes, suspension, alleged abuse, mental health neglect, retaliation concerns, ncaa tournament, sports
## Ex-athletes call for action
15 former Columbia women's basketball athletes demand stricter disciplinary measures than Griffith's three-game suspension.

> Our firsthand experiences cite serious concerns about a culture of emotional and psychological abuse, the mistreatment of injured players, and the utter disregard for athletes’ mental health
## Griffith's suspension details
Griffith received three-game suspension after external review of conduct based on September complaint.
## Alleged abuse claims
Ex-athletes report retaliation concerns and documented abuse dating back to 2019.

> Given the breadth and seriousness of our experiences, and documented reports of alleged abuse reaching Columbia Athletics administrators as far back as 2019
## Griffith's response
Griffith acknowledged missteps but emphasized player well-being and university process.

> I fully respect the process of the University review and take complete responsibility for everything that happens in the program
## University statement
University guarantees inclusive environment while adjusting coaching roles during suspension.

> The program adjusted coaching designations during the disciplinary period, elevating associate head coach Tyler Cordell to interim game-day management
## Griffith's coaching impact
Griffith led Columbia to three NCAA Tournament appearances and a WBIT championship.

> Under Griffith, Columbia has established consistent success within the mid-major tier
## Key takeaway

15 former Columbia women's basketball players demand meaningful accountability for alleged abuse, mental health neglect, and retaliation after coach Megan Griffith's three-game suspension.