Zachary Taft-Imagn Images

Dan Hurley Gets Emotional About UConn Coach Before Illinois Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Abdul Bari Khan | Last updated Apr 1, 2026 11:39 AM ET

Dan Hurley is known for his fiery personality on the sideline. But even the outspoken UConn coach can get emotional when it is time to say goodbye. As the Huskies prepare to face Illinois in the Final Four, they are also spending their final few days with longtime assistant coach Luke Murray.

Murray was recently announced as the next head coach of the Boston College Eagles men’s basketball. Although Murray will remain on UConn’s sideline through the end of NCAA Tournament play, Boston College has already held an introductory press conference for him. However, Hurley was noticeably absent.

The UConn head coach later addressed his absence, explaining that preparation for the Huskies’ Final Four game kept him away. “But I wanted to be there for him,” Hurley said. He then went on to describe his close relationship with Murray, a moment that nearly brought him to tears.

Jan 27, 2026; Storrs, Connecticut, USA; UConn Huskies head coach Dan Hurley watches from the sideline as they take on the Providence Friars at Harry A. Gampel Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images

The 53-year-old said, “He’s one of the closest people to me. Not just somebody I’ve worked with… just personally. Don’t want to start crying right now. But I feel it welling up, so I’m going to stop.” Hurley then rubbed just below his eyes, a gesture that many many interpret as him wiping his tears.

The moment offered a glimpse into the deep relationships behind championship programs. While Hurley and the Huskies remain focused on chasing another national title, Murray’s departure clearly represents more than just a coaching change.

Still, the two now have one final opportunity to chase history together. Hurley and Murray could capture their third national championship before Murray moves on to begin his new chapter, one that may eventually see him facing UConn from the opposite sideline.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: