In a shocking escalation following UConn’s narrow 77-75 NCAA Tournament loss to Florida, the university’s Director of Communications reportedly threatened to “ruin” reporter Joey Ellis’s life over a viral video.
Ellis, of “Charlotte Sports Live,” captured UConn head coach Dan Hurley venting frustrations about officiating as he walked past the Baylor team on March 23.
Dan Hurley’s History of Sideline Outbursts
The confrontation occurred late Sunday night after Ellis posted footage showing Hurley saying, “I hope they don’t f**k you like they f**ked us. I hope they don’t do that to you, Baylor,” referencing a controversial no-call on Alex Karaban’s crucial layup attempt.
The incident has sparked outrage across social media, with many defending the reporter’s professional conduct.
After posting the clip of Dan Hurley leaving the floor post game in Raleigh, here’s an update with our latest reporting late Sunday night. @CSLonQCN pic.twitter.com/pOOvoIINhR
— Joey Ellis (@Jellis1016) March 24, 2025
This controversy represents the latest chapter in Hurley’s contentious relationship with officials and the media. In January 2025, cameras caught him telling a referee, “Don’t turn your back on me. I’m the best coach in the f**king sport,” during an overtime win against Butler, drawing widespread criticism and scrutiny.
Hurley has previously lamented the constant camera presence stating earlier this year, “I just wish they would not have the camera on me 90% of the time unless they feel like it’s driving ratings and more assholes on Twitter that can put clips of me from a game.”
His animated sideline behavior has become a defining characteristic of his coaching tenure. Fellow journalists and fans quickly rallied behind Ellis following news of the confrontation.
“We got your back fam @Jellis1016. Absolutely nothing wrong with your reporting.” one user wrote.
Another called UConn’s actions “embarrassing” while others praised Ellis’s resolve in not removing the video despite pressure.
The incident has amplified criticism of UConn’s athletic department, with many users accusing the program of attempting a coverup. One X user demanded, “UConn athletic department should apologize for this clown behavior,” reflecting the growing sentiment that the university needs to address the situation publicly rather than intimidate the media.
KEEP READING: Top Dan Hurley-UConn Memes That Are Cracking Up the Internet
The controversy comes at a disappointing end to UConn’s tournament run after back-to-back national championships in 2023 and 2024. Florida advanced to the Sweet 16 to face Maryland after their nail-biting victory, which featured standout performances from Walter Clayton Jr. and Alijah Martin, who combined for approximately 40 points.
In other tournament action, Baylor, whom Hurley referenced in his comments, faced Duke in their subsequent matchup.
The incident adds another chapter to the ongoing narrative surrounding Hurley’s temperament and UConn’s handling of media relations, creating an unwelcome distraction as the team processes its earlier-than-expected tournament exit after struggling with inconsistency throughout a season that saw them log ten losses.
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