Florida's Todd Golden coaches amid inquiry, urges 'due process' - ESPN

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — After four «challenging» days, Florida men's basketball coach Todd Golden welcomed the reception he got when he took the court Monday night.

Golden received a rousing ovation, one of the loudest of the night, during pregame introductions before the 20th-ranked Gators beat Grambling State 86-62.

«I thought it was great,» Golden said. «I thought [fans] were as usual, and obviously during the current circumstances, I appreciate it.»

It was Golden's first public appearance since he acknowledged an ongoing school inquiry into sexual harassment and stalking allegations. Golden previously said he is considering «defamation claims.»

The 39-year-old Golden shook hands with his assistants and got several hugs from players as well as Grambling State coach Donte' Jackson. Golden's wife, Megan, and their two young boys sat behind the bench.

Advertisements and public service announcements involving the coach were removed from videoboards inside the O'Connell Center.

The Independent Florida Alligator reported Friday the university was investigating Golden for allegations of sexual harassment, sexual exploitation, stalking and cyberstalking multiple women, including students.

According to the student-run newspaper, the claims include unwanted sexual advances on Instagram, requesting sexual favors and sending photos and videos of his genitalia. The newspaper based its report on a Title IX complaint filed against Golden on Sept. 27.

«What's personally getting me through this right now?» Golden said. «Respecting the situation, my family, my team, my coaching staff. We're just continuing to attack it like we normally would every day.»

Asked what he would say to women fans, Golden requested patience.

«Obviously, in this