Full Breakdown
Columbia Suspends Women’s Basketball Coach Megan Griffith for First Three Games
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Suspension Details
Columbia University announced that head women’s basketball coach Megan Griffith will miss the team’s opening game against Davidson and the subsequent tournament matchups with Rhode Island and Belmont. The three-game suspension follows an external review triggered by a complaint about Griffith’s coaching behavior during practices in a prior season.
Review Background
The university engaged an outside firm to examine the complaint. The review concluded that Griffith’s interactions with the team “did not align with expectations,” but it found no evidence of NCAA rules violations, Title IX breaches, or other anti-discrimination policy infractions. Consequently, the university did not need to notify the NCAA of any formal violations.
Coach Griffith’s Tenure and Achievements
A Columbia alumna and former two-time All-Ivy player (2003-2007), Griffith has become the program’s winningest coach, compiling a 171-99 record over 11 seasons. Under her leadership the Lions have secured three regular-season Ivy League titles (2022-2025), earned two at-large NCAA Tournament bids, captured a WNIT runner-up finish in 2023, and won the WBIT championship last season. The team also recorded its first NCAA Tournament victory in 2025, defeating Washington in the First Four. Columbia’s schedule this year includes games against powerhouses Michigan, Maryland and Duke.
Official Statements & Responses
Columbia University said the review required no NCAA notification and involved no Title IX allegations. In a statement, the university emphasized respect for the review process and noted Griffith’s acceptance of responsibility. The women’s basketball team issued its own statement, describing the suspension as “not indicative of our experience” and reaffirming support for Griffith while highlighting the program’s inclusive culture.
Impact on Season
Missing the early-season contests could affect Columbia’s résumé for at-large NCAA Tournament consideration, as the three opponents are strong mid-major programs. The university has not identified an interim coach for the suspended games. Griffith is slated to return for the high-profile matchups against Michigan, Maryland and Duke later in November, with the team led by Ivy League Player of the Year Riley Weiss.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I fully respect the process of the University review and take complete responsibility for everything that happens in the program, including the times my conduct fell short,” — Megan Griffith, women's basketball coach
