Bush Denies Any Wrongdoing
From the onset of the allegations, Reggie Bush has steadfastly denied any form of cheating during his illustrious tenure at USC. The claims against Bush and the subsequent sanctions imposed by the NCAA not only tarnished his personal legacy but also had profound implications for the USC football program. However, Bush's honor was partially restored when the Heisman Trust decided to give back the trophy, a symbolic affirmation of Bush's remarkable achievements on the field.Legal Battle with the NCAA
Despite the significant gesture by the Heisman Trust, Bush's contention with the NCAA persists. At the heart of this dispute is a lawsuit in which Bush accuses the NCAA of defamation, essentially seeking to clear his name and compel the NCAA to reevaluate his case. This legal action underscores the deep-seated effects of the NCAA's sanctions on both Bush's legacy and the wider USC community.Reconnection with USC and Future Aspirations
In a significant step towards reconciliation, Bush's disassociation from USC, a penalty that was part of the NCAA's sanctions, ended in 2020. This development reopens the door for Bush to engage with the USC football program and its community. Furthermore, Bush has expressed a heartfelt desire to one day lead the current USC team out of the Coliseum tunnel, symbolizing a full-circle moment in his storied relationship with the university.Fighting for Justice and Legacy
For Bush, the battle is not just about personal vindication but also about challenging the label of 'cheater' attributed to him by the NCAA's sanctions. He insists that such a label is unfounded and more detrimental than any other allegation could have been. Through his ongoing legal battle and public statements, Bush aims to compel the NCAA to acknowledge what he perceives as a grave injustice."Because I know the truth is on my side," Bush stated, emphasizing his unwavering belief in his innocence. He further articulated the emotional strain of being unjustly labeled, saying, "Being labelled a cheater was far worse, because I've never cheated, and there's no proof of that, that I've cheated."
Bush also issued a broader appeal to the NCAA, urging the organization to rectify past wrongs and align itself with what he views as the correct course of history. He remains adamant that his collegiate achievements, including his Heisman Trophy win, were earned through legitimate means."This is a clarion call to the NCAA to do the right thing, to get on the right side of history," Bush expressed, underscoring his plea for fairness and justice. He also refuted the notion that his accomplishments could have been achieved through dishonest means, asserting, “You can't get to this, or a national championship, by cheating, I promise you that.”