Overview
- UAB announced Thursday that head coach Taylor Smartt will not return to the softball program after a third-party investigation concluded there was enough evidence of improper conduct.
- The investigator reported findings to UAB and said the conduct violated university policies and certain NCAA rules, though university officials declined to release detailed findings publicly.
- Smartt had been on administrative leave since April 25 as the university reviewed complaints that included allegations of racist remarks, emotional and physical mistreatment, and inappropriate relationships within the program.
- Assistant coach Anna Shelnutt will serve as interim head coach while UAB conducts a search for a permanent replacement and the athletic director urged players to use the university hotline to report concerns.
- The case follows reporting by Sports Illustrated and interviews with current and former players and parents that put a spotlight on player safety, program oversight, and potential NCAA compliance consequences.