Georgetown Basketball Coach Faces Suspension After Accidental Incident with Young Fan

Coach Ed Cooley was suspended for one game after a Georgetown basketball fight injured a young fan. Jeff Battle will coach Monday’s home game versus Coppin State after his suspension.

Georgetown fell to Xavier in the final seconds. Cooley hurled a plastic water bottle at the bench after the team missed foul shots and a 3-pointer. Unfortunately, the bottle hit a parent-held youngster in the stands.

Georgetown Athletic Director Lee Reed consulted with Coach Cooley. Reed stated the coach’s behavior violated Georgetown philosophy and staff standards. A one-game punishment was handed to protect the athletics program and acknowledge the incident’s gravity.

Coach Cooley acknowledged it in his postgame presser. He personally apologized to the family, admitting his out-of-character behavior and promising to change.

Georgetown trailed by three points in the final minutes of the competitive basketball game. The loss was caused by Jeremiah Williams missing two foul shots and Malik Mack missing a deep three-pointer. The disaster was caused by frustration, but university leaders emphasize safety and good conduct with young fans.

Georgetown administration says they will study athletic event safety. The experience reminds us to stay calm in stressful sports.

Sources:

• Georgetown University Athletics Department statements

• Official press conferences from Ed Cooley