Houston
Hall of Famer Cynthia Cooper-Dyke accused by former players of abusive behavior
Cooper-Dyke is being accused by former players of abusive behavior, using demeaning sexual language
Women’s basketball icon and former Texas Southern coach Cynthia Cooper-Dyke used abusive and sexual language, endangered players’ physical and mental health with excessive punishments, and avoided a Title IX hearing on complaints by retiring ahead of it, The Athletic reported Thursday. It reportedly followed a pattern of Cooper-Dyke leaving programs for other jobs after allegations were made to school administrators.
The Athletic’s Chantel Jennings and Dana O’Neil detail more than a decade of alleged abuse during Cooper-Dyke’s time coaching at Prairie View A&M, UNC-Wilmington, Texas Southern, USC, and again at Texas Southern where she retired in March. The announcement was made March 17, the day before the NCAA women’s basketball tournament was set to tip the first round of action. Texas Southern praised her work and wished her success in the future.
It did not mention that the four-time WNBA champion and Naismith Hall of Famer was scheduled to attend a Title IX hearing on April 6 to investigate allegations of abusive behavior, per The Athletic. That hearing was cancelled because, per Texas Southern policy, a complaint can be dismissed if “the Respondent is no longer enrolled or employed by the University.’’
The university was set to introduce new basketball coach Vernette Skeete, who most recently worked as an assistant for Gary Blair at Texas A&M, on Thursday morning. Texas Southern announced late Tuesday night it was postponed. It did not give a reason.
The Title IX hearing was the culmination of months of alleged behind-the-scenes actions by Texas Southern personnel to protect the women’s basketball team. On Jan. 20, the school reportedly issued a limited-contact order stipulating players could not have one-on-one meetings or communicate in any way with the coach as the school went through a “safety-risk assessment.” On Feb. 16, it was reportedly extended to include assistants and prohibited any contact outside of strictly scheduled practices and games.
Cynthia Cooper-Dyke allegedly used inappropriate sexual language while coaching at UNC-Wilmington, USC and Texas Southern. (Photo by David Dennis/Icon Sportswire/Corbis/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Allegations of abuse against Cooper-Dyke
Cooper-Dyke reportedly used vulgar and sexual remarks consistently when talking to players, per The Athletic. Many players found it inappropriate, demeaning and degrading.
Some alleged incidents included in The Athletic report:
- Cooper-Dyke was told one of her Texas Southern players who had a previously known mental health diagnosis was depressed and said, “No, she will be all right, she just needs some d***, that’s all.” She called the same player a “sorry-ass virgin.”
- In a different instance during 21-22, she told a staffer who made a suggestion, “Get the f*** out of my gym, go home. You’re a sorry-ass bitch. You’re a nobody.”
- While a player was doing squats, Cooper-Dyke came up behind her and said, “Ooh, your hips are big, you got a fat ass and I can tell you like to ride some d***.”
- At UNC-Wilmington in 2010-11, she would say “wet, wet” after a shot was made and then motion to a player adding, “I bet that’s what [name redacted] was last night.”
- At Texas Southern in 2012-13, a male assistant complained of having no social life because of early practices. Cooper-Dyke “proceeds to get in front of him on her knees and pretty much act like she’s giving him oral sex,” a player said.
- When one player was slow running a drill, Cooper-Dyke told the team it was because she was “getting d***ed down” all the time.
- At most schools where she coached she called at least one play “hot sex” and often called players “retarded,” “Black-ass child,” “bitch,” “p****” and “dumbass.” She also pressured players to practice despite not being cleared by doctors after injury.
A player at USC, where Cooper-Dyke won two national titles as a player, told The Athletic the coach “mentally and emotionally terrorized us.” Players said she ruined basketball for them and they bonded together to “protect each other’s sanity.”
One player with the USC program told The Athletic:
“I was a mess and not a day went by that I didn’t think about taking my life and even had an idea to do it at Cynthia’s house so she could understand what a devastating impact she had on me.’’
Cooper-Dyke, who turned 59 a week after the scheduled Title IX hearing, was able go from school to school without any allegations coming to light, per the report. Each announcement included words like “tremendous impact” and “real good shape to continue our goals” while wishing the coach the best. Even while school officials reportedly knew of serious issues.
Cooper’s ‘GOAT’ status impacted complaints
Many of the players The Athletic spoke to cited Cooper-Dyke’s standing in the sport as the reason they didn’t come forward or tell anyone about their experiences. A former USC player said she wrote a letter about all of the transgressions she saw and experienced, but never planned to do anything with the letter.
“How could I?” she said, via The Athletic. “She’s Cynthia Cooper. She’s goated — the GOAT. And I’m me.”
Cooper-Dyke (then using her birth name, Cynthia Cooper) won two national titles at USC and was a four-time Finals MVP (1997-2000) for the iconic and dynastic Houston Comets franchise. She also has an Olympic medal in the trophy case and was named to last year’s “The W25” list for the WNBA’s 25 greatest players in history. She is one of 10 women’s players to have a signature shoe and players she coached grew up hearing of her as a legend.
From ‘hero’ to ‘manipulator’
Julia Finlay, then a rising junior at UNC-Wilmington in 2010 who watched the WNBA star growing up, said she gasped when the Hall of Famer entered the room for a coaching interview Finlay was asked to participate in. Per The Athletic, she and a teammate “practically begged” to hire Cooper-Dyke.
Finlay’s views changed amid alleged emotional and verbal abuse that included the coaching staff designing a punishment drill in which she did log rolls the length of the court over and over for 20 minutes, per the report. She repeatedly puked and experienced skin scraping off her knees and shoulders. A reporter for the Wilmington Star-News happened to be in the gym and reported on it. It was largely swept under the rug and Cooper-Dyke reportedly had teammates choose her or Finlay, citing the player as the problem.
Finlay quit before the season started and told The Athletic she was “extremely suicidal at that point. All I wanted was to play basketball and to have her like me. She’s my hero.’’ She said Cooper-Dyke manipulated her into losing confidence.
“There’s a quote I think of when I think of her,” Finlay told The Athletic. “‘If you don’t transform trauma, you will transmit it.'”
Harassment in coaching
The Athletic pulled information from Cooper-Dyke’s book, “She Got Game: My Personal Odyssey,” to detail her childhood struggles and views on life and basketball. Jennings and O’Neil include a run-in Cooper-Dyke wrote of in her book while playing in Italy. A coach didn’t like the player’s constant need for information and would shout “shut up” increasingly louder at her, it said.
She confronted him, thinking he didn’t understand the negative tone of the wording. Instead, he used it again and when she sassed back at him, he sometimes threw her out of practice.
At USC, players recalled that Cooper-Dyke similarly sometimes responded to questions from players or her assistant coaches with “shut the f*** up.” In the middle of some games, she sometimes shouted them down with lines such as: “Do you think you’re smarter than me?”
The allegations against Cooper-Dyke might be the highest profile because of her name and status, but they are far from the first to come up.
The list includes allegations of toxic mistreatment by women’s basketball coach Cameron Newbauer at Florida that were made public last October. Newbauer resigned due to “personal reasons” months prior in July. Syracuse head coach Quentin Hillsman issued his resignation last August less than a week after meeting with investigators looking into allegations of harassment and abuse. Twelve Orange players had entered the transfer portal, triggering questions about the program.
The NWSL is still reckoning with alleged abuse by coaches within its ranks. The abuse had reportedly been going on for years and even decades spanning different leagues and levels in some cases. They were able to move to different players, including upward mobility, even as people in power knew of the allegations.
When it comes to international culinary gems and cultures across the United States, the city of Houston is counted among one of the best places to experience an authentic taste of every corner of the world.
On the evening of Friday, August 8th, Houstonians will have a chance to engage all of their senses into the world of real West African flavors at Grubido’s ‘Art of Fufu’ Food & Art Show, a free culinary and art experience taking place at Flatland Gallery (1709 Westheimer Rd.) in Montrose.
Curated by Grubido founder and Culinary Cultural Curator Kavachi Ukegbu, the annual celebration of west African cuisine and artistry will once again open its doors to patrons to witness the delights of creating and eating Fufu (a starchy, dough-like food that is a staple in many West and Central African countries), and its delicious and diverse pairings of soups and stews that originate from various parts of the continent, and uniquely compliment the beloved food staple as a complete meal. The event will also celebrate the observance of National Fufu Day in the United States on August 11th.
From the process of how different types of fufu are grown and manufactured, to the careful guidance on properly preparing the fufu to be eaten, the ‘Art of Fufu’ Food & Art showcase will give patrons a full circle perspective and appreciation for the food staple that has gained global popularity on social media and in many countries around the world.
Attendees will be treated to fufu and soup samples, live Afrobeats music, an impressive display of fufu inspired artwork and collectables from over the years, and the opportunity to purchase Grubido food products, t-shirts, and the official The Art of Fufu cookbook. Originally published and released by Chef Kavach in 2021, “The Art of Fufu is a fascinating and informative guide to fufu, one of the most delicious and beloved staple foods of West Africans.” All cookbook purchases at the event will be signed by Chef Kavachi.
Entry for this event is free to all guests, but RSVP is strictly required in advance. To RSVP for the upcoming Art of Fufu Food & Art show, please visit the official website online at www.TheArtofFufu.com, or contact Grubido at (832) 818-6847.
The Art of Fufu Cookbook is a culinary treasure that explores the flavors, techniques, and cultural significance of fufu. It is a testament to the artistry of West African cuisine and serves as a guide for those seeking to immerse themselves in this beloved dish.
For more information, please visit www.theartoffufu.com & www.artoffufu.com
Today, I write with great joy and admiration to wish you, Prof. Chris Chinwe Ulasi, a delighted 70th birthday. It is a glorious milestone, and my family and I are honored to join friends and colleagues in celebrating this remarkable occasion with you here in Cancun, Mexico.
Since I first met you in 2005 at Texas Southern University (TSU), Houston, Texas, you have consistently demonstrated that you are a true Nwannedinamba—a brother from Anambra State, Nigeria. As both a colleague and a friend, you have been a source of inspiration to all who have crossed your path.
Shortly after I joined TSU, a colleague informed me that I had a “brother” in the School of Communications. That brother was you. Not long afterward, we co-presented a training seminar for Akwa Ibom legislators, accompanied by their then-Governor, Akpabio, who now serves as Senate President of Nigeria. I vividly recall how your training manual immediately impressed me with its depth and clarity. From that moment, we became not only colleagues and friends but brothers in every sense of the word.
You are a bona fide poet whose work resonates deeply with those privileged to read it. Your poems, carefully crafted and rich in meaning, often reflect the pressing issues of the time. I read them more than once to fully grasp their layered insights. They remind me of my younger days, poring over Dele Giwa’s columns in The Concord newspaper, pen and paper in hand, collecting new vocabulary. Thankfully, with the aid of modern technology, deciphering your poetic expressions has become more accessible, though no less profound.
Beyond your academic scholarship, you are a respected public intellectual. Through your efforts and those of your colleagues, you revived the West African Pilot News as co-publisher and executive editor, initially founded by Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe. I still recall when you invited me to join the editorial board and contribute op-eds. Initially hesitant—declaring myself a criminologist, not a journalist—you quickly convinced me that the goal was to elevate Ndigbo voices. You were right: too often, the positive narratives of Ndigbo are overlooked. Since then, the Pilot has become a vital platform for scholars and writers across disciplines to express optimistic, forward-looking visions of Nigeria and Africa. This is a tremendous legacy—one that you and your team should be proud of.
Your academic and professional accomplishments speak for themselves. You are a Professor of Radio, Television, and Film, the Dean of the School of Communication, and Chair of the Department of Radio, Television, and Film at TSU. With over three decades of teaching, research, and creative work—and more than 25 years of leadership experience—you have distinguished yourself as an educator, scholar, administrator, and cultural leader. Beyond the classroom and administrative offices, you are a dynamic force in the world of media and literature. A talented screenwriter, producer, director, and poet, you have used your voice and platforms to shape narratives and inspire change. You have been a journal and book editor of the Journal of Nigerian Affairs, formerly COMPO REVIEW. Since 2000, you have proudly served as University Marshal at TSU—another testament to your enduring leadership and commitment.
Your leadership in the Houston community is equally outstanding. The more than 200 people who traveled to Cancun to celebrate you are a testament to your enduring impact. As Chairman of the People’s Club of Nigeria International, Sugarland chapter, your leadership has been exemplary. At Our Savior Anglican Church (OSAC), you oversee communications and have trained younger members to manage the system with excellence, even in your absence. You also serve as Dean of the Diocesan Conference, a role appointed by the Bishop, and are a valued member of OSAC’s governing board. Your dedication has contributed significantly to the growth and unity of the church.
Moreover, in the broader community, you once served as Chairman of the Ndi-Ichie Igbo Cultural Club and now lead its annual cultural celebrations in Houston. These events showcase the richness of Igbo heritage—culinary delights, traditional dances, language, and youth involvement—with elegance and pride.
Nwannedinamba, I could fill many more pages with your accomplishments, but allow me to share a personal story. When I lost my beloved brother, Prof. Ebere Onwudiwe (may his soul rest in peace), you traveled all the way from Nnewi to Isunjaba, Imo State, accompanied by a musical group and heartfelt gifts, including Nkwu Elu. I shared that special palm wine only with members of the Onwudiwe family. Your presence in our family compound remains unforgettable. While we danced to the Ogene music you brought, you engaged in deep dialogue with my traditional ruler about the origins of Isu. My Eze later insisted that you visit the palace, where he intended to present you with archival records on Isu’s history. One day, we will fulfill that promise.
Prof. Ulasi, you are not only a distinguished colleague and scholar but also a cherished friend. We are deeply grateful for your friendship and all you have done for us and the broader community. We also thank your wonderful wife for her unwavering support, love, and understanding.
As we mark this milestone with you, we are reminded that true greatness lies not just in titles held or accolades received, but in the lives touched, the values modeled, and the legacy quietly built each day. You exemplify this kind of greatness. May your 70th year be a continuation of your influence, your light, and your unwavering commitment to building a better, more just, and culturally vibrant world.
As you celebrate your 70th birthday, we wish you continued health, joy, and fulfillment. May the years ahead bring even greater blessings. Thank you for being the exceptional person you are, Nwannedinamba.
With warmest regards,
Prof. I. D. Onwudiwe
____
■ Dr. Onwudiwe, a Professor of Criminology at Texas Southern University, is on the EDITORIAL BOARD of the WAP
Houston
Billionaires Conclave USA Brings Career Wealth Masterclass to Houston with Dr. Olumide Emmanuel
As Americans navigate economic uncertainty in the second half of 2025, many are seeking ways to stabilize their finances amid global inflation, job losses, trade tensions, and a volatile stock market.
To help career professionals better manage their financial futures, Dr. Olumide Emmanuel — author, entrepreneur, and former corporate professional — will lead a one-day masterclass titled “How to Build Wealth as a Career Person” on Saturday, Aug. 23, at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites, 1549 Westborough Drive in Katy. The event will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Presented by Billionaires Conclave USA, the full-day masterclass aims to equip professionals with practical strategies for wealth creation and financial independence.
“With rising financial uncertainties, this masterclass aims to empower participants to take charge of their financial future using proven frameworks,” the organization said in a statement.
The curriculum will cover topics including personal financial diagnosis, economic trends, the pyramid of wealth, and investment strategies tailored for career professionals. The event will also feature real-life case studies, a live Q&A session, and post-event networking.
Participants will receive a complimentary continental breakfast and lunch, a training manual, and access to a 30-day post-event mentoring program with Emmanuel.
Registration is now open to the public at Eventbrite.com. Early registrants before July 31 will receive a 50% discount. More information is available at www.olumideemmanuel.org.
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