DeUnna Hendrix, the women’s basketball head coach at Miami of Ohio, resigned on Wednesday. According to a report from The Athletic, her decision to resign was prompted by text messages that showed she had an inappropriate relationship with a player.
Hendrix, who was accused of having an inappropriate relationship with an unnamed player, was suspended shortly after the athletic department at the university reportedly discovered 180 texts sent over an 11-day period.
The messages contain at least 30 words that are considered “intimate.”
Title IX coordinator of the university launched an investigation. According to The Athletic statement, after the university reviewed the case it was determined that “the matter did not constitute a violation of Title IX” or the University’s Sexual Misconduct Protocol.
The review showed that Hendrix was terminated for a violation of the policy prohibiting staff from engaging in intimate relationships with undergraduates.
A violation of this policy can be considered a breach of an employment contract. Hendrix’s right to due process was stated in the school’s statement.
Hendrix, according to reports, referred to a married couple during a text exchange, saying “Doing this openly with you would be more ideal.”
Hendrix sent a text on April 9 that stated, “TODAY is the day that my girl will return to me.” She then noted that “the airport would be free of Miami WBB staff.”
Hendrix chose to resign rather than go through the hearing procedure. The university accepted Hendrix’s resignation on April 26. Her departure was announced to the team the same day.
Hendrix thanked the administration of Miami University for allowing her to run the athletics program for four years in a press release posted on the school’s athletics site.
“I cannot express my gratitude for this prestigious institute and its leadership.” “I would also like to thank the Oxford Community for their love and support.” “I look forward to the next stage of my career and will continue to root for the RedHawks.”
Hendrix was not given an official reason for her departure by the university.
Hendrix went 35-80 during her four-year stint at Miami Ohio. Hendrix played seven seasons for High Point University before joining the Red Hawks.
