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Travis Walton denies allegations in 'Outside The Lines' report

January 30, 2018
MSU senior guard Travis Walton and freshman forward Delvon Roe celebrate teammate, junior forward Jon Crandell’s first points of the game. The Spartans finished the night with a 75-47 victory over the Hoosiers, on February 7, 2009, at Breslin Center.
MSU senior guard Travis Walton and freshman forward Delvon Roe celebrate teammate, junior forward Jon Crandell’s first points of the game. The Spartans finished the night with a 75-47 victory over the Hoosiers, on February 7, 2009, at Breslin Center. —

Former MSU men's basketball player and coach Travis Walton denied allegations made in ESPN's most recent "Outside The Lines" report.

The report states Walton assaulted a female student and allegedly took part in the rape of another student, with little action taken by head coach Tom Izzo or other high-ranking officials.

Walton released a statement that says he never assaulted then-MSU junior Ashley Thompson on Jan. 16, 2010 at an East Lansing bar. He also stated he didn't commit any acts of violence toward her.

"While conversing with (Thompson), and without notice or provocation, she threw a drink at me, and I subsequently left the establishment," Walton said in his statement. "Two written statements from independent, objective witnesses were given to the City Attorney, and support my innocence. Ultimately, the determination to resolve the case was based on the the merits of the investigation."

Walton also said he has never been charged with sexual assault and the alleged sexual assault was never reported to MSU or the police.

"My encounters with this woman were more than just a single occasion, and my actions with her were always consensual," Walton said. "I stand by these facts, and will defend myself to the extent that the law allows."

He also said he was never hired or fired by MSU in January 2010, and he was enrolled into MSU taking classes to complete his degree. After he graduated, Walton said he went to Europe to continue his basketball career.

Walton said he apologizes for the negativity he's brought to MSU, the Los Angeles Clippers and his family and friends. Walton was put on administrative leave Friday from his position as an assistant coach for Clippers' G-League team, the Agua Caliente Clippers of Ontario, Calif. 

Head coach Tom Izzo denied to answer questions regarding Walton's allegations after Sunday afternoon's 74-68 win over Maryland.

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