IE 11 is not supported. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser.

Rick Pitino, Hall of Fame coach, under fire for escort scandal

In a new book, former escort Katina Powell claims there were more than 20 sex parties for basketball recruits on the Louisville campus from 2010 until 2014.
Head coach Rick Pitino of the Louisville Cardinals reacts in the first half of a game during the 2015 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament on March 27, 2015 in Syracuse, N.Y. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty)
Head coach Rick Pitino of the Louisville Cardinals reacts in the first half of a game during the 2015 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament on March 27, 2015 in Syracuse, N.Y.

Pressure is mounting on Hall of Fame coach Rick Pitino and his University of Louisville basketball program amid claims that a former athletic staff member at the university paid for strippers to attend parties with high school basketball recruits.

In a new book, former escort Katina Powell claims there were more than 20 sex parties for basketball recruits on the University of Louisville campus from 2010 until 2014.

RELATED: Report: Former Louisville players confirm Katina Powell's allegations

She alleges Andre McGee, a former assistant coach, paid her and her escorts to help lure high school recruits to the school.

Pitino says he was unaware of the allegations and the University of Louisville has declined to comment until a review is completed.

McGee is on paid leave from his current job as assistant basketball coach at the University of Missouri- Kansas City.

This article originally appeared on NBC News.com.