USC is reportedly investigating whether or not senior cornerback Josh Shaw did in fact injure himself by jumping off a balcony to save his nephew from a swimming pool. According to Scott Wolf of the Los Angeles Daily News, there were some “doubts within the program” over Shaw’s story late Monday night.
Shaw has been labeled a hero after he suffered two high ankle sprains when he claims to have jumped from a second-floor balcony and climbed into a pool to rescue his 7-year-old nephew. Wolf said he has been informed by sources that Shaw’s injury did not have to do with rescuing anyone from a pool. Shaw also allegedly told USC that he jumped from a third-floor balcony, not a second.
USC head coach Steve Sarkisian told reporters on Tuesday that the school has received calls contradicting Shaw’s account of what happened.
“I have no reason, no history, to not believe Josh and his story (about) what has occurred,” Sarkisian said. “Within the past few hours or so we’ve gotten a few phone calls contradicting what Josh said occurred Saturday night … we’re looking at it. Beyond that, Josh is adamant with what occurred.”
On Monday, Sarkisian praised Shaw for his “heroic act” and Shaw said he had no regrets over getting injured while trying to save a life.
“I would do it again for whatever kid it was, it did not have to be my nephew,” the senior said. “My ankles really hurt, but I am lucky to be surrounded by the best trainers and doctors in the world. I am taking my rehab one day at a time, and I hope to be back on the field as soon as possible.”
Video via Liz Habib
