NORMAL, IL (WTKR)- Illinois State University has closed its investigation into an incident at the Red Birds' December 9 basketball match-up with Norfolk State in which a fan allegedly shouted a racial slur at Spartans' guard Jamarii Thomas.
In a statement provided to News 3 by the school, the Illinois State University Ethics Office concluded that it could not verify the use of a racial slur.
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Norfolk State coach speaks on alleged racial slur used against Spartan player
“While the investigation did not verify the use of a racial slur, Illinois State remains committed to promoting an open and inclusive campus community where all people feel welcomed, valued, and respected," the ISU Ethics Office statement read. "It is our goal as a university to move forward with a renewed effort to promote and encourage practices on our campus that help us demonstrate that commitment, including those outlined in Illinois State’s Event Code of Conduct, the Athletics Code of Sportsmanship, and th"e Missouri Valley Conference Sportsmanship Standards of Conduct.”
The ethics office reviewed video, audio, the lead official's game report and the seating diagram. Statements from 47 individuals were collected as part of the investigation. The university spokesperson said that Norfolk State declined to participate in the investigation.
"We chose not to participate," Spartans' head coach Robert Jones said. "It was six weeks later when they chose to reach out about the investigation and then, honestly, what was really going to happen? We wanted to move forward with the season and just continue on with what we're doing now and not think about what happened December 9."
Jones said he's not bothered by the results of ISU's investigation, noting that he was there and the alleged incident happened in a specific area.
"You can pick 47 anybody around there," he said. "There [weren't] 47 people on that court, so I don't really care about that statement at all."
During the game, the slur was allegedly shouted at Thomas while he was near the sideline opposite the Norfolk State bench. This led to tempers flaring and an argument ensued between Jones and Ryan Pedon, his Illinois State counterpart. Pedon and Illinois State both issued apologies following the game.
Norfolk State president Dr. Javaune Adams-Gaston and athletic director Melody Webb issued a statement in response to the investigation's closing Monday night.
"Norfolk State University stands firmly against racism and discrimination in any form. We are fully committed to fostering an environment where all individuals, regardless of their background, feel valued, respected, and included.
"The external investigation into this matter was very important, and we are appreciative of the efforts made by Illinois State University.
"It is disheartening to see instances of racism tarnishing the spirit of fair play and camaraderie that sports are meant to embody.
"We condemn any actions that undermine the dignity and humanity of our student-athletes. We want to reiterate our dedication to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment. We stand with our student-athletes, Coach Robert Jones, and staff who traveled with the team. We recognize and understand the difficulty our players experienced, and that they persevered.
"Let us use this moment to recommit ourselves to fostering a culture of respect, understanding, and unity. We encourage open dialogue, education, and collaboration to address the root causes of such incidents and work towards a future where incidents of racism are eradicated from our campuses and beyond."
This is a developing story and we will continue to bring you updates on air and online.
