UConn Huskies head coach Dan Hurley. Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

Dan Hurley got booed right after UConn beat Illinois in Final Four

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports
By Renzo Pocholo Salao | Last updated Apr 5, 2026 9:11 AM ET

Dan Hurley was clearly not the people’s champion Saturday after leading UConn to more Final Four glory.

UConn outlasted Illinois in a thrilling 71-62 contest that saw the Fighting Illini’s comeback fall short at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Ind. The Huskies led by as many as 14 points in the second half, but saw their lead shrink to as little as four points in the final two minutes.

Hurley was asked about the poise shown by freshman Braylon Mullins, who once again hit a clutch three-pointer late to keep Illinois at arm’s length. Before he could even get his first sentence out, Hurley received a chorus of boos from the crowd.

Dan Hurley was booed during his interview after UConn advanced to the Championship game pic.twitter.com/hBgnBScPyL
— Fullcourtpass (@Fullcourtpass) April 5, 2026

Hurley wasn’t even sure what they were booing about, assuming it might have been his hilarious headbutt of referee Roger Ayers after Mullins’ already iconic game-winner against Duke. Ayers himself had no problem with Hurley after the incident, calling it a “nothing” exchange during a moment worthy of intense passion from any coach.

Perhaps the crowd was infiltrated by St. John’s fans, whom Hurley’s wife called out shortly before Saturday’s game. It’s easy to hate a larger-than-life figure like Hurley, especially as he heads to his third national title game in four seasons. The man can withstand a few boos here and there.

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

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