Pitt, Verdi Seek Dismissal of Six Players’ Title IX Lawsuits

Six Former Panthers File Lawsuit

In February, six former University of Pittsburgh women’s basketball players—Favor Ayodele, Raeven Boswell, Makayla Elmore, Brooklynn Miles, Isabella Perkins, and Jasmine Timmerson—sued the school and ex‑head coach Tory Verdi. They allege violations of Title IX and claim that Verdi inflicted “emotional, psychological, and physical abuse” while fostering a “hostile, discriminatory, and retaliatory environment.” The complaint cites specific statements made during the 2023‑24 season, including a highly distressing remark about suicide. The plaintiffs further contend that Pitt was aware of the problems but failed to intervene.

• Favor Ayodele
• Raeven Boswell
• Makayla Elmore
• Brooklynn Miles
• Isabella Perkins
• Jasmine Timmerson

Legal Motion to Dismiss

Pitt and Verdi’s legal teams filed motions to dismiss the six suits on June 30 in the U.S. District Court for Western Pennsylvania. Jeremy D. Engle and Matthew B. Simon represent the university, while Matthew D. Racunas acts for Verdi. In their briefs, the attorneys argue that the complaints fall short of the substance required to proceed. They quote the Supreme Court, noting that a federal statute prohibiting sex discrimination is not a “general civility code.” According to the filings, most statements were coaching critiques unrelated to sex.

Specific Allegations and Counterarguments

One of the more shocking claims involves a post‑practice comment captured in the suit: “Every night I lay in bed I want to kill myself because of you.” The former players say this caused fear, emotional distress, and confusion among the squad. Four of the six lawsuits highlight xenophobic remarks made before a game against Clemson, including a line about ICE and an instruction to “speak English here.”

Isabella Perkins alleges a separate incident where Verdi told her, “I don’t like you as a player, but I’d let my son date you.” The defense concedes this could relate to sex discrimination but insists it does not amount to severe, pervasive discrimination that denies educational opportunities. Perkins also claims she was routinely denied adequate medical care while playing injured. The attorneys counter that no facts show the university treated her differently because of her sex. Additionally, the players lack standing for injunctive relief because they are no longer on the Pitt roster, the filing notes.

Program Impact and Coaching Change

Verdi was fired after three years of a six‑year deal, leaving a 29‑65 overall record with the Panthers. He previously compiled about 200 wins at UMass and Eastern Michigan. His departure followed a dreadful 1‑17 conference season, the worst for Pitt since joining the ACC in 2013. The university hired former College of Charleston coach Robin Harmony after a roughly three‑week search. The recent struggles sit against a backdrop of limited success; Pitt had only one winning ACC season (2015 under Suzie McConnell Serio) and two Sweet 16 appearances from 2008‑2009.

Senior U.S. District Judge Joy Conti Flowers is presiding over the cases. A Pitt spokesperson told USA TODAY Sports that the university is aware of the lawsuits, considers them meritless, and will defend the institution vigorously. The outcome could set precedents for how Title IX claims are evaluated in collegiate coaching disputes.