A women’s basketball game between South Alabama and Coastal Carolina descended into a brawl Wednesday in Pensacola, Florida, resulting in eight player ejections and medical attention for a referee. South Alabama won the Sun Belt Conference tournament game 80-70.
Escalation on the Court
The incident began with 5:39 remaining in the fourth quarter when Coastal Carolina’s Tracey Hueston and South Alabama’s Cordasia Harris became involved in a physical altercation near the basket. Hueston reportedly turned and swung at Harris after an initial contact, prompting others to attempt to intervene.
During the altercation, Hueston inadvertently struck referee Marla Gearhar with a forearm, causing her to fall to the floor. She remained on her back until attended to by staff and medical personnel.
Conference Response and Suspensions
The Sun Belt Conference responded with suspensions. Coastal Carolina forward Tracey Hueston has been suspended for the remainder of the postseason. South Alabama players Cordasia Harris, Amyah Sutton and Daniela Gonzalez each received a one-game suspension.
In addition to Hueston and Harris, six other South Alabama players were ejected: Terren Coffil, Saneea Bevley, Princess Okafor Nweze, and Jeriyah Baines.
Differing Perspectives
Coastal Carolina coach Kevin Pederson expressed regret over Hueston’s involvement, stating, “I know Tracey Hueston regrets that.” He described Hueston as “an incredible model citizen off the floor” and acknowledged the incident was “extremely frustrating.”
South Alabama athletic director Joel Erdmann, even as calling the incident “extremely unfortunate and unacceptable,” stated he did not believe Harris, Sutton, and Gonzalez’s actions warranted suspension, arguing they did not meet the NCAA’s definition of fighting. Erdmann indicated the team will continue to support coach Yolisha Jackson and prepare for their Thursday game against Texas State.
Frequently Asked Questions
What sparked the initial altercation?
The incident began when South Alabama’s Cordasia Harris appeared to bump into Coastal Carolina’s Tracey Hueston from behind underneath the basket.
How many players were ejected from the game?
Eight players were ejected: Tracey Hueston and Cordasia Harris were ejected immediately, along with six additional South Alabama players.
What is the status of the injured referee?
Referee Marla Gearhar was evaluated by medical personnel at the Pensacola Bay Center and was released.
What consequences will this incident have on the teams’ tournament runs remains to be seen, but the suspensions will undoubtedly impact both Coastal Carolina and South Alabama as they navigate the Sun Belt Conference tournament.
