After the Lithuanian Basketball Federation (LKF) found no signs of sexual harassment by Rimantas Grigas, a former women’s national team coach, the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) has opened a separate investigation, the Basketnews website reported on Friday.
The LKF conducted its probe in February. While the federation’s Disciplinary, Ethics and Appeals Commission found “no signs of harassment”, it issued Grigas a warning over possible violations related to how he communicated with players and organised his coaching duties.
According to Basketnews, FIBA asked the LKF to share the materials reviewed by the commission, along with the contact details of those interviewed as part of the investigation.
The international federation reportedly launched its investigation after receiving an anonymous complaint from Lithuania.
The LKF began its investigation after a report by 15min.lt in February quoted several national team players and a member of the Kibirkstis Vilnius club describing what they said was harassment or behaviour suggestive of it. They declined to reveal their identities, citing concerns about safety and potential damage to their careers.
At the time, LKF Secretary General Dominykas Domarkas, with help from lawyers, prepared a questionnaire that was sent to the players.
The athletes were asked about Grigas’ behaviour, possible harassment, and other actions potentially inconsistent with ethical and moral norms during their time with the national team.
According to Basketnews, Domarkas forwarded the players’ responses – translated into English – to FIBA.
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