Texas Southern University Confirms Termination of Former Athletic Director Kevin Granger
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Posted By: Will Moss on March 13, 2026 A quiet removal of a retired jersey banner from the rafters of H&PE Arena at Texas Southern University has brought to light a major administrative decision that had unfolded behind closed doors. The disappearance of the No. 10 banner honoring Kevin Granger last week revealed that the former athletic director was formally terminated from his position earlier this year. Texas Southern officials confirmed that Granger was notified of his termination on February 13, 2026, with an official termination date set for March 16, 2026. The decision followed several months of internal and external investigations tied to a civil lawsuit filed against him in 2025. Key Takeaway: The banner removal came roughly one week before the university publicly confirmed Granger's dismissal, reigniting a story that had remained largely dormant since he was placed on administrative leave in June 2025.
Investigation Timeline and University ResponseAccording to the university's statement, Texas Southern launched two external administrative inquiries after learning of allegations in June 2025. "In June 2025, Texas Southern University was formally notified of serious allegations made in a civil lawsuit against Dr. Kevin Granger," the university said. The allegations prompted an immediate decision to place Granger on administrative leave while the university pursued investigations conducted outside the institution under Title VII and Title IX procedures. Interim leadership stepped in to oversee the athletic department during this period. University officials confirmed that President James W. Crawford made the decision to remove Granger's retired jersey banner from public display inside the arena on March 5. Details of the Civil LawsuitThe situation stems from a civil lawsuit filed in June 2025 by a former Texas Southern athletics staff member. The lawsuit alleges that Granger sexually assaulted and harassed the staff member during an encounter in April 2025. The complaint also claims that Granger suggested he could help advance her career if she complied with his requests. Houston attorney Tony Buzbee, who represents the plaintiff, said the legal case remains active, according to the Houston Chronicle. Granger's attorney, Letitia Quinones-Hollins, has disputed the allegations, previously telling reporters that her client maintains the relationship in question was consensual and criticized the university's decision to terminate him. Texas Southern University has declined to comment further on the matter because the litigation remains ongoing. A Legendary Playing CareerDespite his dismissal from the athletic department and the removal of his banner, Texas Southern officials emphasized that Granger's achievements as a student-athlete remain recognized. His name remains part of the Texas Southern University Sports Hall of Fame. Granger's accomplishments as a Tiger from 1992 to 1996 include:
"Any suggestion that the University failed to act or acted without due consideration is inaccurate." For months, the investigation and administrative decisions surrounding Granger had largely remained out of public view. However, once the banner symbolizing his legacy disappeared from the rafters, the story resurfaced, ultimately revealing that the university had already moved to close this chapter behind the scenes. With the termination now confirmed, one of the most prominent figures in modern Texas Southern athletics is no longer part of the university's leadership, even as the legal case connected to the allegations continues to unfold. Originally reported by HBCU Gameday. If you enjoyed this article, Join HBCU CONNECT today for similar content and opportunities via email! |
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Will Moss
Founder & CEO, HBCU CONNECT, LLC Hampton University class of 1995 Member Since June 1999 |
