New investigation launched into Illini player allegations

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (AP) — The University of Illinois has hired a Chicago law firm to launch a second investigation into accusations of mistreatment made by the parents of some former women’s basketball players.

University spokeswoman Robin Kaler said the second investigation announced Tuesday will be handled by Pugh, Jones & Johnson, and will focus on accusations that coach Matt Bollant and now-former assistant coach Mike Divilbiss verbally abused players and created racial tension on the team.

Those allegations were initially investigated by the school, which said no laws or university or NCAA policies were violated.

Accusations that coaches pressured one player to play with an injury are being investigated separately by another law firm that’s also looking at the football program.

The university also announced a series of measures intended to ensure player well-being.