Vanderbilt Women’s Basketball Opts Out of Season

The Vanderbilt women’s basketball program has decided to opt out of the remainder of the 2020-21 season.

The school made the decision due to complications related to COVID-19, including personal opt-outs and injuries.

“We fully support and respect the decision of our student-athletes. Their health, safety and well-being have always been, and will continue to be, a top priority,” said Candice Lee, Vanderbilt’s vice chancellor for Athletics and University Affairs and athletic director in a post on the school’s website. “We know that this was a tough call for them, in a year full of tough calls, and a disappointing outcome for the student-athletes and the program.”

Vanderbilt finished the 2020-21 season 4-4 overall and 0-3 against SEC opponents.

“As a staff we have and will always prioritize the health and safety of our student-athletes,” Vanderbilt head coach Stephanie White said. “We are coaching a group of young women who have been resilient in dealing with opt-outs, injuries, COVID-19 protocols, as well as the physical, mental and emotional toll that comes with COVID-19. We respect our student-athletes’ decision and support them as we continue to move forward.”