UConn head coach Dan Hurley did not hold back when criticizing the team’s fanbase following Saturday’s 79-75 victory over Georgetown.
Hurley was disappointed by the empty seats and lack of energy at Gampel Pavilion in Storrs, Conn., suggesting the flat atmosphere played a role in the team’s unexpectedly close victory. He outright challenged fans to show up and be louder, openly criticizing their recent attendance despite the team’s success.
“I’ve kind of given up on that a little bit. I’ve done that,” Hurley said when asked about trying to hype up the home crowd. “I don’t get the same response. When we first got here, we played in front of paltry crowds. We’ve given our fans two national championships out of the last three years. We’re 24-2. We’ve been ranked at the top of the rankings the whole year. We’re the basketball capital of the world. There shouldn’t be criticisms of the crowds at our games.
“When I saw Ed (Cooley) during the handshake line, he asked me what was up with the crowd. There was just a lot of empty seats. The section behind our basket was empty. It should be a madhouse when we play. We need our fans in the games from the tip, when we’re playing defense, to get loud, and obviously when we score or hit a three or dunk the ball it’s pretty easy. … Fans can criticize me all you want. I’ve got some f—ing equity.”
With the strong season UConn is having so far, Dan Hurley expects more out of the fans. pic.twitter.com/aG84CU9MKM
— FOX College Hoops (@CBBonFOX) February 15, 2026
Hurley is never shy about speaking his mind, and as he alluded to, this is not the first time he has spoken about his frustration with the home atmosphere. It is, however, the most pointed criticism he has offered yet.
As Hurley noted, the Huskies have been one of the best teams in college basketball all season. Saturday’s win moved them to 24-2, and they are a legitimate championship contender. Hurley just wants fans to act like it.
