Utah Women's Basketball Team Faces Racial Attacks at NCAA Tournament Hotel

During the 2024 NCAA Tournament, the Utah women's basketball team faced disturbing incidents of racial hate crimes while staying at a hotel near Spokane, Washington. These incidents prompted the team to relocate for their safety, shining a spotlight on the ongoing battle against racism in sports. In Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, just thirty miles away from the tournament venue, the Utes encountered racist taunts from fans as they went about their activities.

From derogatory words shouted by passing vehicles to parked trucks unleashing racial epithets, the team members, cheerleaders, and staff were subjected to a series of unsettling events. Associate athletic director Charmelle Green recounted how the team was left shaken by these attacks, leading them to seek help from law enforcement. Coach Lynne Roberts emphasized the harsh reality of racism affecting people of all races and commended the NCAA for assisting in relocating the team to a safer environment.

Despite the victory over South Dakota State, the shadow of these hateful actions loomed over the team. Coach Roberts expressed regret for the negative impact on what should have been a celebratory moment, stressing the importance of addressing injustices in sports. While their NCAA Tournament journey ended with a loss to Gonzaga, the Utes' resilience and unity in the face of adversity serve as a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight against racism in sports.

The incidents in Coeur d'Alene underscore the urgent need for creating inclusive and safe spaces for athletes to compete free from discrimination.