On Sunday, Lady Vols basketball head coach Kim Caldwell announced that she has dismissed guard Ruby Whitehorn after being charged with simple possession following her suspension prior in the offseason for initial charges of aggravated burglary and domestic assault.
In the wake of the decision, Whitehorn has released a statement on her Instagram:
“As most of you know, this has not been my best year. I’m not usually one to open up about my personal life or challenges and that is part of the reason I am in this position today. For the past couple of months I have walked by fear and not faith. Fear of asking for help, for guidance, fear of failure.
“To my coaches & teammates, I appreciate the support on and off the court. I have failed to uphold the standards of the lady vol legacy and what it represents and for that I apologize. To the Lady Vol community and fans your support and encouragement will forever be appreciated.
“With everything that has occurred this year, I am dedicating time so that I can focus on healing and bettering myself mentally.
“Thank you to my family, friends, and everyone who has supported me on this journey. While my love for this sport has been my motivation through every dark moment in life, my motivation has shifted to God and honoring him in whatever path he takes me down next.
“‘In all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight’
“Proverbs 3:6”
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More From RTI: Everything Lady Vols Basketball HC Kim Caldwell Said on Ruby Whitehorn Dismissal, Season Opener
Early on Thursday morning, the day after Tennessee’s 148-48 exhibition win over Columbus State, Whitehorn was charged with simple possession. Whitehorn was also arrested this offseason on Aug. 8 with felony charges of aggravated burglary and domestic assault. Whitehorn was deemed the ‘primary aggressor’ according to officers. In the report, Whitehorn said she was attempting to defend herself during the incident and was trying to get her property back.
On Sept. 5, Whitehorn pleaded guilty to two misdemeanors, according to Knox News’ Cora Hall. Hall reported that it was a ‘commonly offered agreement that will erase the convictions from her record if she meets the requirements of the deal.’
After serving an indefinite suspension, she returned to the team ahead of the full stretch of official practices and started in the team’s 100-point exhibition win. She scored a tie for the team-high 18 points to go with seven rebounds.
“It is my responsibility to protect the high standards of this historic program,” Caldwell said on the dismissal. “In light of recent events, Ruby has been unable to reflect those standards, and I have made the difficult decision to dismiss her from our team. I love Ruby and will always be rooting for her, but my priority is to uphold the respected reputation of the Lady Vols.”
