An opposing team fan chanted “Russia” to a U.S. college basketball player from Ukraine. The university immediately apologized and bowed its head.
Utah State University, a member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) men’s basketball division 1, played an away game against Colorado State University at the Moby Arena in Fort Collins, Colorado, USA on the 5th (Korean time).
Senior guard Max Shulga of Utah State University stood on the free throw line with 40.9 seconds left in the second half. Utah State was narrowly ahead of the home team, Colorado State, 83-77.
Before throwing the free throw, Shulga turned his head to look at one of the stands. Because he heard unexpected words from the audience. Some home fans chanted “Russia” at Shulga.
It’s not uncommon to see booing at opponents throwing free throws in the game, but what they’re known as “some” of fans cheering for Colorado State crossed the line. 스포츠토토
Shulga was originally from Kaiu, the capital of Ukraine, and his family is known to remain in Kaiu. Ukraine is a country that has been suffering from the ongoing Russian invasion since last year.
Colorado State University head coach Nico Medved said on his social media after the game, “The students and fans of our university are very good people, but this is absolutely unacceptable. I sincerely apologize.”
Colorado State University also publicly apologized. They apologized to Utah State University and Shulga, saying that a small number of fans, not all of them, did something unacceptable.
Shulga accepted their apology. “My family and the people I love are going through a very difficult time in Ukraine and are in constant danger. I pray every day for him to come,” he said.
Utah State won 88-79, and starting guard Shulga contributed 9 points and 6 assists to the team’s victory.