BREAKING NEWS: Third Former Indiana University Basketball Player Accuses Team Doctor of Sexual Abuse
BLOOMINGTON, IN – In a stunning and troubling development, a third former Indiana University basketball player has come forward with accusations of sexual abuse against the university’s former team doctor. The latest allegations, which were made public this morning, have sent shockwaves through the Indiana basketball community and prompted an immediate investigation into the accusations.
The former player, who has chosen to remain anonymous at this time, claims that Dr. James Thompson, who served as the team’s physician for over two decades, sexually abused him during routine medical examinations while he was a member of the basketball team in the early 2000s. This latest accusation follows similar allegations made by two other former players earlier this year, bringing the total number of accusers to three.
According to the former player’s legal representation, the abuse occurred during visits to the team’s medical facilities, where Dr. Thompson was responsible for providing medical care to athletes. The player alleges that what began as standard physical exams gradually escalated into inappropriate and invasive actions.
“My client is courageously coming forward now to share his story and hold those responsible accountable,” said the player’s attorney, Mark Williams. “He has carried this burden for many years, but now feels it is time to take a stand and join the others who have bravely spoken out against Dr. Thompson.”
The previous two accusers, who also played for Indiana’s men’s basketball program, made similar claims earlier in 2024, leading to an initial investigation by both the university and local law enforcement. Those players, now in their 30s, allege that the abuse occurred during their time with the team in the 1990s and 2000s. Both have since filed lawsuits against Indiana University, the athletic department, and Dr. Thompson, seeking justice for the alleged abuse they endured.
In a statement released this morning, Indiana University expressed its shock and dismay at the new allegations and vowed to fully cooperate with any investigations into the claims.
“We are deeply disturbed by these allegations, and we take them very seriously,” said Indiana University’s spokesperson, Sarah Lawson. “We are committed to ensuring a safe environment for all of our students and athletes. We will work closely with law enforcement, legal authorities, and any relevant parties to fully investigate these claims. We are also offering support to the individuals who have come forward and will continue to provide any assistance they may need.”
Dr. James Thompson, who retired from his position as the Indiana University basketball team doctor in 2016, has not yet commented on the new allegations. He has denied all previous claims of misconduct, and his attorney has stated that they are “thoroughly reviewing the new accusations” and intend to defend him vigorously in court.
However, the new allegations have already prompted further questions about the university’s handling of the initial complaints. Critics are now calling for a more thorough investigation into Indiana’s oversight of Dr. Thompson’s medical practices and whether the university took sufficient action when the earlier complaints were made.
“As we’ve seen with other high-profile cases involving sexual abuse in collegiate sports, these kinds of accusations require an exhaustive investigation, transparency, and accountability,” said survivor advocate Maria Patel, founder of the organization Safe Sports Now. “It is vital that Indiana University not only take immediate action to address the claims but also ensure that a full, independent investigation takes place to determine whether the university or athletic department overlooked or enabled this behavior.”
The third accuser’s allegations have added fuel to the fire surrounding the scandal, with many calling for a broader reckoning within college athletics regarding the power dynamics between student-athletes and team medical staff. While the details of the abuse remain unclear, the courage of the victims coming forward has brought national attention to the issue.
As the investigation unfolds, all eyes will remain on Indiana University to see how it responds to these deeply disturbing claims and whether Dr. Thompson and those who may have been complicit will face appropriate consequences.
Indiana University has pledged full cooperation with law enforcement and has stated that it will provide additional support and resources to the individuals who have come forward. As more details emerge, the university’s handling of the situation will likely continue to be under close scrutiny.
