Columbia Suspends Basketball Coach Megan Griffith
The head coach will serve a three-game suspension following a review of her coaching behavior.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Basketball
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Columbia University has suspended women's basketball head coach Megan Griffith for three games. An external review concluded her interactions with players failed to meet university expectations.
Why it matters
The disciplinary action follows an investigation into a complaint regarding coaching behavior during a previous season. While no policies regarding Title IX or anti-discrimination were violated, the university determined the conduct did not align with institutional standards.
Coach Megan Griffith holds a 171-99 win-loss record over her 11-year tenure at Columbia University. She is also recognized as a three-time Ivy League Coach of the Year.
The players
Megan Griffith
She is the head coach of the Columbia University women's basketball team and a three-time Ivy League Coach of the Year.
Columbia University
This private Ivy League research university is located in New York City.
The details
The university engaged an external firm to examine coaching conduct after receiving a complaint about behavior during practices in a prior season. The investigation specifically reviewed coaching interactions but did not identify any breaches of Title IX or anti-discrimination policies.
Timeline
November 2, 2026: Megan Griffith misses the season opener against Davidson.
Season Trajectory
The suspension of a veteran coach significantly alters the early-season outlook for Columbia as the team begins its schedule. This development disrupts the leadership stability for the program, impacting the roster's preparation for their opener against Davidson and the upcoming Nashville tournament.
Coach Griffith will be absent from the bench for the season-opening game versus Davidson and a tournament in Nashville. This creates a temporary coaching shift that will test the team's depth and operational continuity early in the 2026 season.
The takeaway
Maintaining clear boundaries in coaching interactions is essential for upholding institutional values in collegiate athletics. Teams often rely on consistent leadership to navigate high-stakes tournament play and non-conference openers.
Further reading
For more news on the local court, visit the New York City Basketball section.
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