Lady Vols Basketball Dismisses Ruby Whitehorn Following Recent Arrest
The University of Tennessee women’s basketball program has dismissed player Ruby Whitehorn, head coach Kim Caldwell announced Sunday.This challenging decision comes after Whitehorn’s recent arrest for marijuana possession, marking the latest in a series of legal issues impacting her tenure with the team. Caldwell emphasized the need to maintain the program’s established standards and reputation.
“I love Ruby and will always be rooting for her,” Caldwell stated, “but my priority is to uphold the respected reputation of the Lady Vols.”
Recent Events Leading to Dismissal
Here’s a breakdown of the events that led to this outcome:
* Thursday’s Arrest: Campus police stopped Whitehorn and discovered she was in possession of marijuana,resulting in a misdemeanor charge of simple possession/casual exchange.
* Previous Suspension & Arrest (August): Whitehorn was previously suspended following an August arrest involving an altercation at a woman’s residence.
* August Incident Details: Police reports indicate Whitehorn allegedly kicked in doors at the residence, claiming she was retrieving her phone and passport.
* September Plea: She pleaded guilty to aggravated trespassing and aggravated burglary, receiving judicial diversion with the possibility of having her record expunged after one year.
Whitehorn’s Apology and Team Impact
Whitehorn publicly apologized via Instagram shortly after the dismissal announcement. She expressed regret for failing to meet the standards expected of a Lady Vol.
This dismissal leaves a void in the Lady vols lineup. Whitehorn, a 6-foot player from Detroit, was a key contributor last season.
* She started 28 of 34 games.
* She ranked fourth on the team in scoring,averaging 11.6 points per game.
* Prior to Tennessee, she began her collegiate career at Clemson, where she started 62 of 66 games.
Looking Ahead for the Lady Vols
Tennessee is set to open its season Tuesday night against No.9 NC State. The team finished Caldwell’s debut season with a 24-10 record, reaching the Sweet 16 of the NCAA tournament before falling to Texas.
This season, the Lady Vols will need to adjust their strategy and rely on other players to fill the scoring and starting role previously held by Whitehorn. The team’s ability to overcome this challenge will be a key factor in their success this year.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
