Liberty basketball player Asia Todd transfers due to ‘racial insensitivity’ from leadership

A Liberty University women's basketball player says she is transferring because of "racial insensitivity" from the school's leadership.

Asia Todd, who played 26.3 minutes per game as a freshman in 2019-20, announced on Twitter that she was entering the NCAA's transfer portal because of the campus culture. 

"Due to the racial insensitivity shown within the leadership and culture, it simply does not align with my moral compass or personal convictions," said Todd, who wore a "Black Lives Matter" shirt in the video she posted to Twitter. "Therefore, I had to do what I felt was best within my heart and stand up for what is right.

"Please know that this decision was not taken lightly. This decision had nothing to do with basketball or the program, for this decision is bigger than basketball," she added, saying that her choice had nothing to do with the relationships she built with teammates, coaches and staff members. 

Announcement: I have entered my name into the Transfer Portal and will no longer be attending Liberty University ?? pic.twitter.com/LwESGkjwNs

Jerry Falwell Jr., the Liberty University president and son of late evangelist Rev. Jerry Falwell, tweeted a racist photo in the wake of George Floyd's murder. He apologized for the tweet Tuesday, but not before nearly three dozen black alumni denounced him in a public letter. 

"I pray that you guys respect my decision and that you guys can pray for me as I am seeking for a new home and a great fit," Todd said. 

LeeQuan McLaurin, who had been Liberty’s director of diversity before resigning this month, told MSNBC in an email that Liberty’s student body has gone from 10 percent black to 4 percent over time from 2007 to 2018.

Contributing: Associated Press

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