Todd Golden made his first public appearance Monday night, four days after allegations surfaced accusing the University of Florida head basketball coach of sexual harassment, exploitation and stalking involving multiple female students.
Golden, 39, received a standing ovation from the crowd at the start of the game at the O’Connell Center in Gainesville. After the 20th-ranked Gators cruised to an 86-62 victory against Grambling State, the coach addressed reporters about the allegations — and the university’s subsequent investigation into them.
“What is driving me personally through this now?” Golden said. “Respecting the situation, my family, my team, my coaching staff. We just keep attacking like we normally would every day.”
Golden added, “Obviously, in this situation, he owes it to the process and to continue to support the guys, and I just hope he lets the process play out and see where it ends up,” he said.
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Independent Florida Gator reported on Friday, Nov. 8 that Golden is the subject of a Title IX complaint filed on Sept. 27.
The lawsuit alleges Golden made unwanted sexual advances on Instagram, solicited sexual favors and sent photos and videos of his genitalia to multiple women, the newspaper reported.
A statement obtained by PEOPLE from a spokesperson for the University of Florida said it “cannot comment on or confirm any inquiries, complaints or investigations under Title IX.”
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Golden issued his own statement about Xu over the weekend, first acknowledging the situation.
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“For the past month, I have actively participated in an ongoing school investigation and have respected the confidentiality of that investigation,” Golden wrote. “I recently engaged Ken Turkel to advise me on my ability to file a defamation lawsuit while this confidential investigation is ongoing. My family and I appreciate the support we have received and remain confident that the university will continue its efforts to quickly complete the review.”
On Monday night, Golden’s wife Megan and two young sons were sitting on the Florida bench, ESPN reported.
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After the game, the coach added that he is focused on the season ahead.
“Again, I know what’s going on. I know the situation,” Golden said. “Our staff did a great job. Our guys did a good job. We’ve spent a lot of time together the last few days and we’re continuing to prepare for what’s ahead, which was this game tonight and Florida State on Friday. ”
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Source: HIS Education