FRESNO, Calif. — A judge today tossed out a $19.1 million judgment awarded a former Fresno State women's basketball coach who had sued the school claiming gender discrimination, and ordered a new trial unless she accepts a smaller sum.

Former coach Stacy Johnson-Klein has until Feb. 22 to decide whether she'll accept a $6.6 million award instead, the judge said.

Johnson-Klein sued California State University, Fresno claiming gender discrimination, and said university officials sexually harassed her and retaliated against her because she spoke up for her players.

The university said Johnson-Klein was fired because she violated NCAA rules and her sometimes erratic behavior endangered athletes in her charge.

A jury found the school wrongfully terminated and discriminated against the coach, and awarded Johnson-Klein the historic judgment in December.

Fresno State attorneys asked the judge to overturn the verdict, alleging Johnson-Klein's lawyers hadn't proven their case and claiming jury misconduct. While the judge reduced the award Friday, the verdict stands.

Johnson-Klein — the third woman in the school's athletics department to sue for discrimination under Title IX — said she hoped the judge's ruling would encourage women coaches and athletes to stand up for their rights.

"I've proven that I'm a fighter and a believer in my faith and in the system," Johnson-Klein said. "If you're wronged you have to make it right."

University officials also claimed the decision as a win, but vowed to pursue an appeal.

"We are pleased that the court recognized that the verdict in this case was excessive and reduced the award," said the university's attorney, Dawn Theodora. "We will continue to explore our legal options, including appeal, and hope this dispute can be resolved expeditiously."