As the Missouri Tigers continue their successful season on the court, at least one Tiger is in the midst of an investigation, which has him suspended, indefinitely.
The allegations against junior point guard Terrence Phillips include some sort of sexual misconduct; whether communicated or acted upon, the details haven’t been provided.
Missouri’s Title IX office is investigating a complaint filed by an alleged victim, who has reportedly filed complaints against Phillips in the past. According to Ashley Jost, of The St. Louis Post, the office had received additional information from the victim, and has proceeded with an investigation.
At this time, the Title IX office hasn’t determined if there is more than one victim; it also hasn’t provided the nature of any alleged offense.
"Phillips’ future status with the program will be determined in coordination with campus and department leadership."
The Missouri Tigers are in the midst of a relatively successful basketball season, especially compared to the course of the last three seasons, but Phillips’ suspension stretches an already depleted Mizzou roster even more thin.
While Phillips hasn’t been the starting point guard for the Tigers, he’s still provided depth, experience and leadership for the team. Currently, there is no timeline on Phillips’ possible return for the Tigers.
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Missouri is now preparing for a stretch of SEC opponents which will test the Tigers’ youth and mettle, starting in two days at Alabama. While Phillips’ absence may not make a big impact for the Tigers, it would have at least been reassuring to have experienced depth on the Tigers’ bench.