The University of Kansas student section came under criticism following a controversial chant during last night’s basketball game against UConn.
Multiple students were reported to have chanted “F*** Dan Hurley” during the game, prompting mixed reactions from fans and observers alike.
While some fans acknowledged the intensity and passion behind the chant, many argued it reflected poorly on KU’s long-standing reputation for class and sportsmanship.
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Kansas Jayhawk Fans took to their official Facebook handle and wrote,
The KU Student Section chanted “F*** Dan Hurley” multiple times during last night’s game against UCONN. Even though I think Hurley is a baby & I find him very annoying, I wasn’t a fan of the chants. I thought it was a bad look.
Kansas Jayhawk Fans
Many fans drew comparisons to Kansas State University, suggesting that such behavior was not typical of KU students. Sheri Pierce Williams commented,
We usually don’t do that. That is a ksu thing. KU students don’t be like ksu students!!
Sheri Pierce Williams
Debbie Burke added,
Sounds like something KSU would chant, but let’s support our team instead of cussing out coaches!
Debbie Burke
Several fans defended the sentiment behind the chant but criticized its execution. Joseph Loganbill wrote,
Yeah he’s a hard guy to like. But that’s beneath us all. Be loud. Be raucous. But don’t be personal and mean spirited Jayhawks.
Joseph Loganbill
Others suggested that such behavior could backfire by motivating the opposing team. Damon Kleinsorge said,
Probably backfired and helped motivate UConn players as KU seemed very flat after first 15-17 minutes of first period
Damon Kleinsorge
Even amid criticism, a handful of fans took a more humorous approach. Frank Eichhorn admitted,
It is a bad look, but i still find it pretty funny.
Frank Eichhorn
Others suggested the chant might have been misheard. Kathleen Kennalley, who attended the game, noted,
I was there and I thought they were saying “sit down Hurley” because he was on the court the whole time and almost got T’d up twice. (Which is not abnormal for him but still fun to taunt)
Kathleen Kennalley
Many fans underscored that KU basketball’s overall culture has traditionally promoted respect and class. Neva Allison commented,
I’ve always been proud of KU, but to have that chant is very sad. It makes some in the student body look real bad. Why can’t a real fan support his/her team by yelling just for their own team without negativity toward the opposing team or coach? Coach Self would have been embarrassed by what happened; he deserves better than that.
Neva Allison
Similarly, Ladonna Parks Harms encouraged students to show class, writing,
Show more class KU that is what we expect from other rival colleges.
Ladonna Parks
Other comments focused on the game’s broader context. Several fans pointed out that KU ultimately lost, making the chant appear even more tone-deaf.
Remy Kulick-Hart wrote,
It’s even a worse look after we choke and lose the damn game
Remy Kulick-Hart
On the other hand, Trent Glass summarized, “So was losing…”
Several others highlighted the irony of attempting personal attacks while the team was struggling. Keven Courtney wrote,
maybe the students should chant shoot better then 3-9 the final 6 minutes of the game
Keven Courtney
Some voices called for perspective and understanding of college students’ behavior. Benjamin Terwilliger suggested,
Let the students have fun. It’s not a big deal. Kind of old mannish and prudish to whine about it, it’s just a word.
Benjamin Terwilliger
Others, however, emphasized respect for opposing coaches and the image of KU basketball. Noah Ginsberg noted,
I get Dan Hurley isn’t the most likable person in college basketball, but those chants are not appropriate and are not representative of who we are.
Noah Ginsberg
Despite the criticism, not all fans felt the chant had a significant impact. Some suggested that Hurley, known for his fiery personality and competitive edge, likely paid little attention.
John Ambrosio said,
I told the people in my section last night that I like Dan Hurley as a coach. He’s a rough tough eastern kid. I believe he’s from Jersey. We act differently and he could care less about the chant.
John Ambrosio
However, KU Athletics has not publicly commented on the incident.
Fans are left reflecting on how enthusiasm at sporting events can sometimes overshadow the values and sportsmanship that the university seeks to uphold.
