Report: Former Winthrop Players Say Gregg Marshall Was Abusive

Wichita State head coach Gregg Marshall is under investigation by the university for allegations of verbal and physical abuse, and Marshall's alleged behavior appears to date back before his days with the Shockers.

Multiple former Winthrop players told The Athletic that Marshall was abusive during his time with the program. Marshall coached at Winthrop from 1998 to 2007 before joining Wichita State.

The descriptions of Marshall's behavior at Winthrop mirror the behavior described by his players at Wichita State. Multiple former Winthrop players say Marshall made racist and sexist comments toward players, and that he mocked a player who took prescription medication for his mental health.

Former Winthrop players also said Marshall put his hands on players on multiple occasions, both during practice and off the court. The players described Marshall grabbing a player by the shirt and throwing him against a wall during his son's birthday party as just one of multiple incidents of physical abuse during Marshall's tenure.

Marshall responded to the allegations on Tuesday. 

"I acknowledge that my coaching style isn’t for everyone. I am passionate and energetic, and countless players have thrived on my programs and excelled in our team culture," Marshall told The Athletic. "I am not demeaning or abusive. I have always pledged my full-hearted commitment to my team."

"I hope that no player or coach in my program ever doubts my respect for them or my investment in their success."

Marshall was never disciplined for his alleged actions at Winthrop. Wichita State has hired law firm Tueth Keeney to conduct an internal investigation.

"The investigation is being completed in an expeditious and deliberate manner. We have received full cooperation from university staff, coaches, and current student-athletes, and Coach Gregg Marshall and support any individual who chooses to participate in order to conduct a fair, impartial and thorough investigation," Wichita State said in the statement.

Marshall has amassed a 525–204 record in 22 seasons as an NCAA head coach. He reached the Final Four with Wichita State in 2013.