UConn’s head coach Dan Hurley found himself in the limelight once more on Tuesday night during the Huskies’ 80-78 overtime victory against the Butler Bulldogs.
Towards the end of the first half, Hurley believed there ought to have been a foul on a defensive rebound effort. He was recorded on video saying to the officials, “Don’t turn your back on me.” “I’m the top coach in this damn sport.”
Hurley also voiced his annoyance with the TV cameras often turning to him during his outbursts at the officials.
“The TV enjoys my presence,” Hurley remarked, according to Yahoo Sports. “I simply hope they feature their camera on the other coach more…I just wish they would display these other coaches going crazy at the officials in other Big East games that I’m involved in.” I observe, stepping into a timeout when I’m not conversing with officials, that the other coaches are as expressive as I am.
The Huskies were ahead by as much as 15 points during the first half and maintained a 39-31 advantage at halftime. Nonetheless, Butler fought its way back into the contest and even surged ahead with a two-point lead before UConn secured the overtime victory.
One source of Hurley’s frustration arises from the team’s three-game losing streak during November’s Maui Invitational, where the Huskies were outscored by 50 at the free throw line. The Huskies persist in struggling with free throw efficiency, as evidenced by Butler’s 28 attempts from the foul line on Tuesday night, in contrast to UConn’s 14.
UConn players have frequently faced being restrained when attempting to execute their off-ball movements in the half court. For example, during UConn’s last play of regulation against Butler, the Huskies aimed to pass the ball to junior forward Alex Karaban. Instead, Butler’s Jahmyl Telfort restrained him, prompting point guard Hassan Diarra to attempt a last-second shot before the shot clock ran out.
Nonetheless, Hurley is correct about other coaches chastising officials and complaining about missed calls. This occurs frequently in the sport, yet Hurley appears to always be in the limelight whenever he displays emotions, and the cameras eagerly seize those instances for all to enjoy.
No matter your opinions on Hurley and the UConn program, you can’t overlook the enthusiasm and dedication he displays on the sideline along with his skill set. Tuesday night provided yet another instance of his antics being captured on camera, resulting in a press conference that was quite intriguing, to say the least.
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