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Boston University and head women's basketball coach Kelly Greenberg have parted ways. On March 8, four BU players -- all members of the 2013-14 team -- accused Greenberg of emotional bullying. The university subsequently formed a panel to investigate the accusations against the 46-year-old coach. "I have determined that it is in the best interest of the university, the women's basketball program and myself for me to resign my position as head women's basketball coach," Greenberg said Tuesday night through a spokesperson. "I do not agree with some of the findings of the review panel regarding my coaching style, which was intended to produce well-rounded athletes and a winning team. However, given all that has transpired, I do not believe it will be possible for me to continue as an effective coach at Boston University." Greenberg recently finished her 10th season at the school. The bullying accusations made last month were the second such occurrence during her tenure at BU. She faced similar allegations from two players after the 2007-08 season.
Boston University could not immediately be reached for comment. Through a spokesperson, the school released the following statement on its website last month: "We take these allegations very seriously, and we will look into them promptly, thoroughly, and in an unbiased manner," said Todd Klipp, Boston University senior vice president, senior counsel and Board of Trustees secretary. Greenberg had been at BU since 2004 and compiled a record of 186-127 with the Terriers. She was under contract through 2017. All told, eight former BU players publicly criticized Greenberg's coaching style, which they claimed was emotionally abusive. One of those players, Michal Epstein, who played under Greenberg in 2004, told espnW in March: "I firmly believe she should be banned from ever coaching again, or even working with young people." At the same time, dozens of Greenberg supporters rallied around the coach, even launching a website, www.realkellygreenberg.com. "I feel sick to my stomach seeing such harsh words said about Kelly," said Danielle Callahan, a senior on this season's squad. "We want people to hear the experiences we've had. I can say wholeheartedly that she wants the best for every one of her players." Greenberg's 186 victories were second-most in program history, including four 20-win seasons in the past seven years. The Terriers finished 13-20 this season.
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