After a report this week revealed allegations of abuse against Gregg Marshall, the Wichita State head men's basketball coach spoke out Friday afternoon. In a statement released by Marshall's agent to reporters, Marshall said he was cooperating with the university's independent investigation announced Friday afternoon.
"I am proud to coach the Wichita State men's basketball team," Marshall said in a statement. "Leading this team of committed and passionate scholar athletes is the most rewarding and enjoyable work of my career. I have raised my family as part of this amazing community for the past 14 years, and I look forward to continuing to call Wichita my home for many years to come.
"As a coach, I am responsible for empowering my players to perform at their highest levels. These athletes have committed countless hours of hard work to their craft. They and their families have sacrificed greatly so they can compete at this level and be part of our team. Their families have entrusted me to be a mentor and an educator, and I take that role seriously.
"For several of our players, Wichita State is a launching pad to a successful career playing professional basketball. For many more, it is the pinnacle of of their basketball lives, something they have worked tirelessly toward since childhood. All student athletes in our program leave this university with the tools for success.
"I care deeply for all my players because they are part of the team we have built. They are a critical part of the Shocker legacy we have created together. Whether they have aspirations to play in the NBA or they never again pick up a ball after college, I commit to each of my players that I will do my best to ensure they perform at their best.
"My coaching style isn't for everyone. Many players thrive in the system we have created and are energized by our team culture. For those players, I am a motivator, a pusher, someone who can tap into their greatest potential. For others, I can be demanding, harsh or strict. I don't argue with those descriptions.
"What I am not is demeaning or abusive. I have deep respect for all my players. I believe unequivocally in their value as athletes, as students, and as people. Any portrayal of me to the contrary is wrong.
"I have always pledged my full-hearted commitment to my team. I hope that no player or coach in my program ever doubts my respect for them or my investment in their success. If theres is any question of my love for my team, it's my responsibility to do a better job of demonstrating my dedication.
"I am aware of concerns about my record and treatment of my players that has led to an independent investigation by the university. I have cooperated fully with the investigation and support the university's efforts to understand the concerns that have been raised. I look forward to the conclusion of this process and will continue to focus my energy on our team.
"Throughout my career as a coach, I have devoted myself to accessing and unleashing the greatness of my players — both on the court and in their lives. I am humbled and proud to serve this university and our community."
Wichita State announced more than an hour earlier that WSU hired St. Louis-based law firm Tueth Keeny to conduct the independent investigation.
Marshall is entering his 14th season as Wichita State's head coach. He has led the Shockers to seven NCAA tournaments with two Sweet Sixteen appearances and one trip to the Final Four.
