TUCSON, Ariz. (KUTV) — The University of Arizona has publicly apologized to Brigham Young University (BYU) after a chant from Wildcats fans targeted the BYU men’s basketball team after their recent game.
Desireé Reed-Francois, the university’s athletic director, acknowledged the unacceptable behavior that occurred during the game. It happened as the BYU players were leaving the court following their close 96-95 victory.
“On behalf of the University of Arizona Athletic Department, we apologize to BYU, their student-athletes, coaches, and fans,” Reed-Francois stated. She emphasized that the chant does not represent the values of their university.
Soon after the game, videos emerged online showing students chanting offensive remarks directed at members of the Latter-day Saints community.
This incident is not isolated. In December 2024, Providence College’s athletics director also apologized after similar chants were reported during a game against BYU. In September 2022, the University of Oregon’s student section made headlines for similar behavior, prompting a strong reaction from Utah Governor Spencer Cox, who condemned the bigotry as unacceptable.
These events remind us of the importance of respect and sportsmanship in athletics. It’s essential for students and fans to support their teams without resorting to derogatory comments aimed at others.
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University of Arizona,BYU,Men's basketball,Derogatory chant,Apology,Student section,Religious bigotry,Desireé Reed-Francois
