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Over the last week, Dan Hurley’s on-court antics have taken over the recent college basketball news cycle. With a heartbreaking loss on the road versus Xavier on Saturday, it poses the question on if his on-court antics have created a distraction to the team.
After an overtime win over Butler on Tuesday, Hurley was criticized for telling a referee “don’t turn your back on me. I’m the best coach in the f***ing sport.”
Postgame, Hurley said that he wished the cameras were on other coaches throughout the Big East, because other coaches are just as passionate and emotional. Look at Joe Mazzulla of the Boston Celtics, he’s very passionate and vocal at the same time! Lots of coaches in college basketball are have been criticized for being very enthusiastic: Coach K, Jim Calhoun, and Bob Knight to name a few.
What do those coaches have in common with Hurley? Winning. Many people are envious of winners.
Seeing Dan Hurley's passion on the sideline is just what college basketball needs. He cares about his team, the sport, and winning. That’s what makes Dan, Dan. Prior to UConn’s matchup against Xavier, Hurley told the media, “I’m not gonna change…it’s who I am.” Hurley is not soft, he does not back down and he stands on what he believes in. That’s a winner.
In an interview with 247 Sports, Hurley said, “My players love playing for me, my UConn fans love the way I coach. My resume and results speak for themselves.” Hurley has not been a distraction to this team. He has helped them grow and prosper at the highest level.
Yes, there have been bumps in the road, but the Huskies are still the back-to-back National Champions, and a team to watch out for once March comes, regardless of how vocal their coach is.
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