Syracuse University’s women’s basketball Coach Quentin Hillsman has resigned, after numerous allegations of misconduct by former players and managers. In a statement, Athletic Director John Wildhack says he and Hillsman agreed to the decision.
“The University has accepted Coach Quentin Hillsman’s resignation. Coach Hillsman and I agreed that parting ways is in the best interest of the University, the program and our student-athletes. We wish him and his family all the best. Interim leadership for the Women’s Basketball Program will be announced in the coming days,” said Wildhack in a release.
He notes an investigation into misconduct by an outside law firm continues, and suggests the department will address concerns at the outcome of that probe.
“As previously announced, the University retained an external law firm to conduct a review of the program. That review is ongoing, and the Department of Athletics will address issues that are identified at the conclusion of the review,” said Wildhack.
Hillsman led the team for 15 seasons, going to the NCAA tournament in 8 of the last 9 seasons and reaching the title game in 2016. Past players and other staff accused him of verbal abuse and other inappropriate conduct, leading to the investigation. A total of 12 players elected to transfer away from the team after this past season. Among them was Freshman Kamilla Cardoso, who was named the Atlantic Coast Conference Freshman of the Year for the 2021-21 season.
Hillsman was under contract through the 2024 season. No word on whether he will be owed any portion of that contract.
The investigation into Hillsman's conduct began after a story published last June in The Athletic brought to light complaints by nine players and 19 others with connections to the program about threats, vulgar language, refusing water to players after workouts, uncomfortable physical contact, and hiring an assistant against whom prior sexual harassment allegations were made.