Wisconsin Basketball Player Sues Former Coach for Alleged Abuse

A former player from the Wisconsin women’s basketball team has initiated a lawsuit against ex-coach Marisa Moseley, with the case filed in federal court on Friday.

The lawsuit, first reported by a local outlet, claims that the player experienced psychological abuse under Moseley’s coaching and asserts that the university’s response was marked by a lax approach.

Moseley, along with members from the Wisconsin Regent Committee and former athletic director Justin Doherty, are named as defendants. The plaintiffs in this case include Lexi Duckett, Christina Elle, Mary Ferrito, Tara Stauffer, and Tessa Towers.

The complaints outline allegations that Moseley bullied her players—not just regarding their mental well-being, but in a broader context of control over their lives. Players claim they faced retaliation based on protected speech and experienced discrimination related to disabilities.

Moseley resigned from her position as the Badgers’ head coach in March, citing personal reasons after a four-season tenure.

The plaintiffs also argue that Moseley breached their privacy during private meetings, pressuring them to disclose sensitive information about their personal lives, including family issues and mental health concerns.

According to the complaint, Moseley allegedly used threats concerning scholarships and playing time to manipulate the athletes, presenting her actions as a way to “build trust.”

In a January TikTok post, Towers accused Moseley of threatening to exclude players from the team over mental health discussions. Towers shared that coaching staff had warned therapists about discussing anything that might suggest self-harm or suicidal thoughts, implying that such disclosures could result in being removed from the team.

Towers also stated that she was taken off a team trip and pressured to undergo autism testing.

Following a break from the Badgers in December 2022, Towers ultimately transferred to Ball State.