This has absolutely happened before. Previously social media did not allow for the parents to so easily air their dirty laundry.
I do sympathize with the kids, it sucks for them, I get it. I would not do this as a coach but maybe that's wny I'm not coaching at a place like Tennessee.
If BAS goal is winning NCAA then maybe you cut the three walk ons because you want your coach focused on coaching the people that are getting you to an NCAA title and not spending that time on walk-ons.
As for the three scholarship athletes they all look on paper like tremendous athletes. If BAS knows guaranteed 4 year scholarships are on the horizon she may want to just get out ahead of it with athletes she is not certain she wants.