Big 12 and NCAA Sanctions Head coach Nicki Collen is disciplined by the Baylor Bears women’s basketball team.
March 21, Waco, Texas, 2025
The Baylor Bears women’s basketball program has reportedly been sanctioned by the NCAA and Big 12 Conference after an inquiry into potential infractions within the team. After several months of research, Head Coach Nicki Collen was disciplined and various program restrictions were implemented.
Specifics of the Sanctions
Although the exact offenses have not yet been made public, reports indicate that the penalties are related to inappropriate advantages given to student-athletes and recruitment violations. A number of schools have been under investigation by the NCAA’s enforcement section for possible violations pertaining to recruiting practices, name, image, and likeness (NIL) transactions, and prohibited benefits.
Insiders claim that Baylor may have violated NCAA rules by engaging in excessive recruitment contacts and even using third parties in NIL discussions.
The NCAA has imposed a number of sanctions as a result of the findings, including:
fewer scholarships for the upcoming two seasons.
a 2025–2026 postseason ban in the event that more violations are found.
limitations on recruiting practices, such as fewer official visits and less coaching staff off-campus recruiting.
a monetary fine for the program, which can involve withholding a certain amount of revenue.
Nicki Collen’s disciplinary action
As part of the disciplinary actions, head coach Nicki Collen, who has been in charge of the program since 2021, has been suspended for two weeks without pay. Although there is no proof that she was personally responsible for any misconduct, the NCAA concluded that the infractions under her direction were exacerbated by a “lack of institutional control.”
In a succinct statement, Collen expressed her sadness with the decision while reiterating her dedication to the program. The upholding of the highest standards in Baylor women’s basketball is entirely my duty. We’ll deal with these problems and proceed honorably,” she declared.
Baylor’s Reaction and Upcoming Actions
Officials at Baylor University have stated that they plan to appeal the fines, claiming that the program has cooperated during the inquiry and that the penalties are excessive.
Athletic Director Mack Rhoades said, “We take compliance seriously and are committed to upholding the values of Baylor Athletics.” “We acknowledge the NCAA’s role, but we feel that the severity of these sanctions is out of proportion to the seriousness of the violations.”
The Bears want to carry on their long history of competitive women’s basketball despite the setbacks. As they negotiate the impending difficulties presented by the NCAA and Big 12 Conference, the team is anticipated to regroup.