9 Western Oregon University basketball players sue coaches for alleged abuse, retaliation

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) -- Nine players from Western Oregon University's women's basketball team are suing their coaches and alleging verbal, emotional and mental abuse, as well as retaliation after they claim they were let go from the team for speaking out.

Filed on Wednesday, the suit says that beginning in 2023, the players experienced "a myriad of abusive coaching tactics," from coaches Jessica Peatross and Demetrius "DJ" Marlow, all in violation of NCAA guidelines.

Court documents say these tactics allegedly included "excessive and unreasonable" amounts of exercise as punishment, where the players were forced to run until they were physically sick, vomiting, dehydrated and their feet were bloody.

Further, the suit claims emotional abuse, with the coaches body shaming, belittling and "telling [the players] they were worthless."

After the players made multiple complaints to the university, they said the remainder of their season was canceled and an investigation began, with both coaches placed on paid administrative leave.

However, after the investigation concluded, the suit claims the 10 players who spoke out were not allowed back on the team, with many losing scholarships, including former player Jodi Noyes.

"We all have to pay out of pocket, we all have to go to the university," she said. "We don't have basketball, we just have to do the normal student life without basketball and it's really hard."

In a statement, WOU said an investigation by an external law firm cleared both coaches who returned in April 2024. They added pausing the season showed their commitment to addressing the issues.

According to court documents, the players are seeking $28 million in damages.

KOIN 6 has reached out to the attorneys representing Peatross and Marlow for comment. This story will be updated when we hear back.