Lindsey Dupree Alleges Taylor Smartt Subjected UAB Black Players to Emotional Abuse and Racism

Taylor Smartt’s recent exit from the University of Alabama at Birmingham softball program is drawing mounting scrutiny as former players and parents publicly describe allegations involving racist remarks, emotional mistreatment, body shaming, and abusive behavior tied to the longtime coach.

Accounts shared by former athletes have painted a troubling picture of life inside the UAB softball program, with several players describing an atmosphere they say damaged confidence, mental health, and personal relationships during their time with the team. Allegations surfaced publicly after Smartt stepped away from her position last month.

Lindsey Dupree, whose daughter Aubrey Dupree previously played for UAB, told Sports Illustrated that Smartt repeatedly subjected players to racist comments, verbal attacks, and humiliation tied to physical appearance and self worth. Her account became one of the first detailed public accusations connected to the program.

Aubrey Dupree later described Smartt as manipulative in text messages shared with Sports Illustrated, saying she was made to question herself not only as an athlete but also as a person. Statements from the former player intensified public attention surrounding the softball program and prompted additional former athletes to discuss their experiences.

Smartt’s decision to step away initially appeared routine from the outside, but timing of the allegations shifted focus toward how university officials handled concerns tied to player treatment. UAB has not publicly addressed specific accusations involving Smartt, and it remains unclear whether an internal review is underway.

Former athletes connected to the program say emotional strain extended beyond practices and games, affecting confidence, friendships, and mental well being long after leaving the team. Several accounts described fear surrounding criticism from coaching staff and uncertainty about how complaints would be received internally.

Questions surrounding coach conduct and athlete treatment have become increasingly prominent across college sports in recent years as former players from multiple universities speak more openly about emotional abuse, discrimination, and pressure inside competitive programs. Allegations tied to UAB softball now place Birmingham’s athletic department under growing public examination.

Smartt spent years building a respected reputation within collegiate softball circles, making recent accusations especially significant for many familiar with the program. Former players speaking publicly say public perception surrounding the team differed sharply from experiences they claim occurred behind closed doors.

Additional athletes and families connected to UAB softball have continued discussing their experiences as attention surrounding the allegations spreads. Public response has expanded beyond softball circles and into broader conversations about accountability within college athletics programs responsible for supervising young athletes.

For many former players now speaking publicly, issue extends beyond one coach or one season. Focus has increasingly shifted toward whether universities are prepared to respond when athletes say winning culture crossed into emotional harm and personal humiliation.