Suspended Mizzou guard speaks out in response to Title IX investigation
Mizzou guard Terrence Phillips is speaking out for the first time since head coach Cuonzo Martin suspended him indefinitely from the program.
Phillips told the Kansas City Star, “There are two sides to every story,” Phillips said. “Some people really want to say ‘Me too’ because apparently it’s the cool thing to do. I have a side. I am cooperating with Mizzou like I was instructed. Unfortunately I can’t say a lot, but at the end of the investigation, I intend to be cleared from the accusations. People who know me know this isn’t me.”
We reached out to Phillips as well, but he has not returned our message.
On Sunday, ABC 17 news confirmed the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX is investigating Phillips. ABC 17 News received an email from an alleged victim saying “the University is proceeding with an investigation against Terrence Phillips.” The email was originally sent by an investigator in the Title IX office.
On Tuesday, Coach Martin told reporters he first learned of the investigation this past Friday about 20 minutes before the team left for Starkville, Miss. for its game against the Bulldogs.
Mizzou initially announced Phillips’ suspension this past Friday night. The team released this statement:
“Terrence Phillips has been suspended indefinitely from the Mizzou Men’s Basketball program for a violation of team policy. Phillips’ future status with the program will be determined in coordination with campus and department leadership.”
This past Sunday night, Mizzou released a statement saying, “While we cannot confirm or deny any actions from the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX, we are aware of today’s media reports regarding one of the university’s students.”
“We want to reiterate that the safety of our students, faculty and staff is paramount. The university takes alleged violations of Title IX very seriously, and any allegations are investigated thoroughly and fairly. In some cases, interim measures are taken while an investigation is pending.”
Phillips cannot participate in any team activities while he’s suspended, but he is still on scholarship. On Tuesday, Coach Martin said he has spoken to Phillips since his suspension.
Martin said, “You’re always surprised, because again, that’s somebody’s child on both sides, whatever the case may be.”
Phillips is averaging 2.5 points per game. The junior guard has played in 20 games for Mizzou this season.
An MUPD spokesperson told ABC 17 News Saturday he does not know of any investigations into Phillips. We contacted the Columbia Police Department to request any reports related to Terrence Phillips. We were told the records are closed.
We will continue to follow this developing story.
