Dear Tuskegee Family and Friends:
Tuskegee University and its Department of Intercollegiate Athletics write to express our full, unequivocal, and unwavering support for Head Men’s Basketball Coach Benjy Taylor following the events surrounding the January 31, 2026, contest between Tuskegee University and Morehouse College.
Coach Taylor is a respected professional who has consistently demonstrated exemplary leadership, integrity, and concern for the well-being of his student-athletes. Throughout his tenure at Tuskegee University, he has upheld the highest ideals of collegiate athletics and represented this institution with distinction.
During the events in question, Coach Taylor acted solely out of his fundamental responsibility to protect his student-athletes and staff—particularly in an environment where agreed-upon and customary game‑management and security protocols were not properly carried out. His conduct remained measured, professional, and entirely consistent with the expectations of a head coach entrusted with the safety of his team.
At no time did Coach Taylor engage in behavior that could be characterized as unbecoming, unprofessional, or inconsistent with the standards of Tuskegee University, the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC), Morehouse College, or intercollegiate athletics broadly. Conversely, the circumstances that culminated in Coach Taylor being handcuffed—albeit briefly—fall well outside the bounds of what is normal, acceptable, or appropriate in collegiate athletic environments. No coach should ever be placed in such a position for carrying out their duty to safeguard student-athletes.
Tuskegee University is deeply concerned about the breakdown in established security procedures that contributed to this incident. We remain committed to working closely with the SIAC and all member institutions to ensure that uniform, professional, and clearly communicated security and event‑management standards are implemented and upheld at every conference competition. The dignity, safety, and well‑being of our student-athletes, coaches, and staff are non-negotiable institutional priorities.
Coach Taylor continues to have the full confidence, trust, and support of the Tuskegee University Administration and the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. We are proud of his leadership and grateful for his steadfast commitment to our student‑athletes and to the values of Tuskegee University.
Sincerely,
Dr. Mark A. Brown
President and CEO
Tuskegee University
Reginald Ruffin
Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics
Director of Athletics
Tuskegee University
© 2026 Tuskegee University
