"Literally against school policy": Tulane HC Ashley Langford's Kamala Harris T-shirt doesn't sit right with college hoops fans
On Thursday, Tulane Green Wave head coach Ashley Langford was seen wearing a political t-shirt that didn't sit right with college hoops fans. The 37-year-old was wearing a Kamala Harris t-shirt during Tulane's 63-65 loss to Nicholls State, which is against the university policy of institutional neutrality.
Langford released a statement claiming she didn't want to offend anyone and promised to abide by university policy in the future. Here's her statement.
"It was not intentional on my part to offend anyone with my attire last night. My intent was to show appreciation for a woman I admire beyond a political stance or party. I understand and respect university policy and I will strictly adhere to it in the future."
Tulane also released a statement explaining the university policy and the importance of having a campus where all political opinions are protected.
"Tulane fully supports personal freedom of speech and expression for individual members of its community. However, we have a policy of principled institutional neutrality regarding political and other divisive issues. We underscore the importance of following this policy to all staff when serving in their official capacity at the university. This is critical to fostering a campus environment where all political views are protected and respected."
Fans divided on Langford wearing a Kamala Harris t-shirt
College basketball fans didn't wait long before they let their voices be heard on the matter.
"Seriously? Couldn’t even wear a Tulane shirt while coaching her first game at her alma mater? Oh, and lost to Nicholls. Congratulations @GreenWaveWBB," a passionate Tulane fan wrote.
"I’m not reaching. It’s literally against school policy, and it was addressed today." the same fan wrote.
However, another Tulane supporter came to their new head coach's defense.
"Great job to her. Inherited a team that obviously is lacking talent from Lisa Stockton’s tenure. Played a close game against a well coached Nicholls team. They lost last year too." another Tulane fan commented.
What's next for Langford and Tulane?
Langford's players hope to bounce back from their latest setback by putting some wins on the board. With games coming up against Missouri and Grambling State next week, Langford will try to keep the focus of her program on the basketball court.