Kentucky guard Andrew Harrison's "poor choice of words" has created a controversy that has taken away from the celebration of Wisconsin's 71-64 victory in the NCAA Basketball Final Four and the Wildcats' previously undefeated season.
Multiple media outlets have reported that Harrison used an obscenity and a racial slur about Badgers big man Frank Kaminsky, who scored 20 points and had 11 rebounds during their semifinal matchup.
As a question to Kentucky teammate Karl-Anthony Towns about the unique challenges of defending college basketball's Player of the Year, a frustrated Harrison mumbled under his breath - unfortunately for him, he was sitting right in front of a microphone when he did, and his comment found its way to the surface.
"F--- that n----" is what most outlets reported Harrison as saying. Deadspin added that Harrison said "Oh my God," after the first sentiment.
Harrison, at least, realized his mistake and went on Twitter to express his sorrow over his comment and said he apologized to Kaminsky.
First i want to apologize for my poor choice of words used in jest towards a player I respect and know.— Andrew Harrison (@DrewRoc5) April 5, 2015
When I realized how this could be perceived I immediately called big frank to apologize and let him know I didn't mean any disrespect— Andrew Harrison (@DrewRoc5) April 5, 2015
We had a good conversation and I wished him good luck in the championship game Monday.— Andrew Harrison (@DrewRoc5) April 5, 2015
The school took a conservative approach for a response to Harrison's remark, according to Fox Sports, with Kentucky spokesman Eric Lindsey saying, "We have no comment until we have had a chance to evaluate it."
He did say that the school planned to talk to Harrison about the matter.
Fox Sports, however, brought up a point that is sure to spark debate about equal treatment in such situations.
"Imagine if Kaminsky had said this about Harrison's brother, Aaron, last year after that killer 3-pointer that eliminated the Badgers in the 2014 national semifinals," Fox Sports reported. "Kaminsky would have been executed by a social media mob. Perhaps literally."
Did Harrison's social media apology make up for his comment? Is it OK that he said he used those words "in jest?" Would similar actions by Kaminsky be treated equally?
The Wildcats' 20-year-old player, obviously upset over losing the chance to make history, had to sit in front of a world-wide audience and talk about the loss. Is that fair to Harrison?
Then again, the question wasn't even addressed to Harrison.
Leaving for what promises to be an interesting aftermath.
What do you think about Aaron Harrison's comment about Frank Kamisky? Comment below or tell us @SportsWN.
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