A former Fresno State women's basketball coach was awarded $19.1 million Thursday in a sexual discrimination lawsuit that alleged she was fired because she advocated for women's rights.

The university argued Stacy Johnson-Klein was fired because she was dishonest, potentially dangerous and abusive to her players and assistant coaches.

Johnson-Klein told the Fresno Bee the jury's unanimous verdict was a victory for women in general and proof the legal system works.

"It's long; it's hard; it's not for the weak of heart," Johnson-Klein said outside court. "But it works, and I'm just very thankful it worked today."

After an eight-week trial, jurors deliberated about four hours Thursday before returning their verdict.

Fresno State President John Welty said the university plans to appeal.