Super Bowl Flag: Bradberry’s Honest Admission
In the aftermath of the Super Bowl LVII between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles, a controversial penalty called on James Bradberry drew the ire of fans. Bradberry, however, came clean, admitting that he had committed a holding penalty, saying, “I tugged his jersey. I was hoping they would let it slide.”
College Basketball Punch: Shutes Found Guilty
A brawl erupted during a women’s college basketball game between Memphis and Bowling Green, involving Tigers guard Jamirah Shutes and the Eagles’ Elissa Brett. Shutes was charged in the melee and found guilty of assault in September. Initially pleading not guilty, she later changed her plea to no contest.
Brandon Miller and the Deadly Shooting
Former Alabama standout Brandon Miller found himself named as a co-defendant in a wrongful death lawsuit filed by the mother of a woman killed in a shooting. Miller had transported the weapon to former teammate Darius Miles, the legal owner, who then passed it on to Michael Davis, the shooter. While both Miles and Davis have been charged with capital murder, Miller has not faced any charges.
Ja Morant’s Gun Controversy
Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant faced scrutiny over incidents involving guns. He was seen holding a weapon at a Denver strip club, resulting in missed playing time due to controversy. Weeks later, Morant was once again seen with a gun, leading to a 25-game suspension. Morant is currently involved in a legal battle stemming from a fight that took place at his house with a then-17-year-old.
Angel Reese’s Taunt Causes Stir
LSU star basketball player Angel Reese caused a firestorm of controversy during the national championship against Iowa when she taunted the Hawkeyes after scoring a basket. Reese’s performance of John Cena’s signature “You Can’t See Me” move drew attention on social media. Reese later explained her actions, stating, “I wanted to pick her pocket. I had a moment at the end of the game, and I was just in my bag.”
Michigan Football and the Cheating Scandal
A cheating scandal rocked the Michigan football program during the college football season. The program was accused of running an in-person scouting scheme, with former staff member Connor Stalions being accused of leading the operation. Head coach Jim Harbaugh accepted a three-game ban before the final decision was made, resulting in him missing the last three games of the season.
Northwestern Football Hazing Scandal and Fitzgerald’s Dismissal
Northwestern football faced a firestorm of controversy over a hazing scandal, leading to the dismissal of coach Pat Fitzgerald before the start of the season. The school claimed to have learned of the hazing allegations in late 2022 but found no sufficient evidence that the coaching staff knew about ongoing hazing. As more accusations came to light, Fitzgerald was ousted and subsequently sued the school for wrongful termination.
Michael Oher’s Lawsuit against the Tuohy Family
Michael Oher, the subject of the book and movie “The Blind Side,” filed a lawsuit against Sean and Leigh Anne Tuohy, claiming he was tricked into thinking he was adopted and that he was owed royalties. The legal battle between the two parties continues, with accusations and counter-accusations being thrown. In September, a judge ended the conservatorship, but the dispute over money persisted.
Noah Gragson’s Controversial ‘Like’
NASCAR driver Noah Gragson landed in hot water when he “liked” a George Floyd meme on Instagram. Following the incident, he was indefinitely suspended and later parted ways with Legacy Motor Club. Gragson has since been reinstated and found a ride with Stewart Haas Racing in 2024, expressing his gratitude to NASCAR for the second chance.
Unwanted Kiss at Women’s World Cup Sparks Federation Crisis
A kiss during Spain’s Women’s World Cup soccer championship celebration led to turmoil within the country’s soccer federation. Spanish soccer federation boss Luis Rubiales kissed Jenni Hermoso during the awards celebration, but Hermoso later stated the kiss was not consensual. Rubiales faced accusations of sexual assault and coercion, resulting in his suspension and eventual resignation from his post.
Trevor Bauer’s Legal Settlement
Trevor Bauer, the former Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher and 2020 National League Cy Young Award winner, settled his legal dispute with a woman who had accused him of beating and sexually assaulting her in 2021. His attorneys announced the settlement, stating that all claims had been withdrawn. Bauer, who vehemently denied the allegations throughout the process, can now focus on his baseball career.
Sports are no stranger to controversies, and these recent incidents have once again highlighted the challenges faced by athletes, teams, and organizations in maintaining their integrity and navigating legal battles. As the world of sports continues to evolve, it remains crucial for all involved to prioritize fair play, accountability, and respect.