MPS basketball coach and teacher under investigation for allegedly slapping player during practice

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- A Milwaukee Public Schools coach and teacher is under investigation after allegedly slapping one of his basketball players during practice. 

According to the principal of the Milwaukee School of Languages, it happened before holiday break.

A parent of a student at the school tells CBS 58 crews the varsity basketball coach slapped one of his players after running the wrong play during a practice. 

One of the coach's former players, Darius Teague Sr., describes the accused's coaching style as "tough love," saying the coach is a "great dude. I don't think it’s what they're making it out to be." He thinks there's more to the story that hasn't been made public yet. 

Having played for the Hawks under the accused coach for two years, Teague Sr. says he knows first-hand the methods used on the court: "It was more of a -- what he used to do to us, he’d grab us from the back [of the neck], 'you need to do this and do this and that, get back out there.' What coaches do."

According to a letter from the principal of Milwaukee School of Languages, the coach was immediately removed from practice and is not currently working at the school. The assistant coach is now leading the varsity team as the school investigates.

We asked MPS to clarify if the coach was suspended or fired - they say they don't comment on personnel matters, but he is "not currently working at the school." They won't confirm the name of the accused coach.

CBS 58 reached out to the Milwaukee Police Department and the DA's office to see if an open investigation or charges are pending. Both said they haven't gotten any reports at this time.

Read the full statement below: 

Dear Milwaukee School of Languages Families and Staff,

We value you as a member of the Milwaukee School of Languages community, and we want to keep you informed.

Yesterday, we received a report that one of our teachers, who is also an athletics coach at the school, had allegedly slapped a student athlete during practice before the holiday break. The athletic director immediately removed the coach from practice, and this individual is not currently working in the school. As with any such case, we will investigate thoroughly and take appropriate action. In the interim, an assistant coach has been appointed to lead the varsity team.

We understand that this situation might have been upsetting to students or staff who may have been nearby. If your student needs assistance after this event, please contact the school office to be connected to the school counselor, nurse, psychologist, or social worker. School staff may access the Employee Assistance Program to learn about available options.

Thank you for your ongoing partnership and support as we continue to make MSL a safe place for all of us. If you have any questions, please contact the school office at (414) 393-5700.

Sincerely,

Dr. Juan Baez

Principal

Milwaukee School of Languages