Creighton head men’s basketball coach Greg McDermott’s “plantation” comment earned him some prompt backlash that was widely reported — but according to The Athletic, the controversy also cost the program a recruit.
TyTy Washington — a four-star point guard recruit — told The Athletic that McDermott’s comment caused him to decommit from the school.
“It was definitely the controversy,” Washington told The Athletic. “... It was kind of heartbreaking once I found out what he said. I just felt like the day and age we’re living in — a police officer just killed another young black man for no reason — him saying something like that, it’s just not right.”
McDermott reportedly used the word “plantation” following a loss to Xavier in an attempt at motivation. He quickly apologized, and was suspended for remarks that “were not in alignment with Creighton’s commitment to racial equality, diversity and respect.” McDermott missed the team’s regular season finale and was reinstated.
"Through his immediate apology, ownership of his actions, difficult dialogue with his team and more, Coach McDermott has demonstrated a commitment to grow," Creighton athletic director Bruce Rasmussen said of the incident.
That wasn’t enough for Washington, however, whose recruitment has resumed. Washington has garnered interest from Kentucky, among other programs, according to The Athletic.
