Missouri State University has reached settlement agreements with two former men’s basketball players who suffered serious injuries during a 2018 cryotherapy incident, according to recently released university documents. The settlements total $455,000, with Abdul-Hakim Fofana receiving $295,000 for career-ending foot injuries and Reggie Scurry receiving $160,000 for season-ending injuries.

Cryotherapy Machine Injuries End Athletic Careers

Both players sustained their injuries in January 2018 while using a whole-body cryotherapy machine as part of their athletic training regimen. Fofana alleged that basketball players were required to use the cryotherapy equipment, raising questions about informed consent and the voluntary nature of the treatment protocol.

The severity of injuries ranged from Scurry’s season-ending damage to Fofana’s career-ending foot injuries that permanently ended his basketball prospects and potential professional opportunities.

Negligence Claims Against University Athletics Program

The lawsuits alleged negligence by Missouri State University’s Board of Governors and athletics staff members for failing to properly supervise cryotherapy use, provide adequate safety training, or ensure appropriate medical oversight of the treatment. These allegations highlight institutional responsibilities for student-athlete safety during training activities.

Settlement Terms and Liability Disclaimers

The settlement agreements explicitly state that payments do not constitute admission of liability by the university. This standard settlement language allows institutions to resolve litigation while avoiding formal acknowledgment of wrongdoing that could affect future cases or insurance coverage.

In exchange for the monetary compensation, both Fofana and Scurry agreed to dismiss their lawsuits and release all claims related to the cryotherapy incident, providing the university with finality and protection from future litigation.

Student-Athlete Safety and Emerging Treatment Technologies

This case underscores universities’ duty to carefully evaluate new training technologies and ensure proper safety protocols before implementing them with student-athletes. Cryotherapy, while increasingly popular in athletic settings, requires appropriate medical supervision and informed consent procedures.

The settlements reflect the significant financial and personal costs when athletic departments fail to adequately protect student-athletes from preventable injuries.