Georgetown head coach Ed Cooley was suspended for one game after tossing a water bottle into the stands following an 80-77 loss to Xavier.
Suspension Details
On Sunday, Georgetown athletic director Lee Reed issued a written statement saying he had met with Coach Cooley to discuss the incident that occurred after last night’s game against Xavier. He said the coach’s conduct did not align with the standards expected of coaches and does not reflect the values of Georgetown Athletics or Georgetown University. Reed added that Cooley would be suspended for the next game versus Coppin State and that associate head coach Jeff Battle would take over.
“I met with Coach Cooley today to discuss the incident which occurred after last night’s game against Xavier. I expressed that his conduct did not align with the standards we expect of our coaches, nor does it reflect the values of Georgetown Athletics or Georgetown University,” Georgetown athletic director Lee Reed said in a written statement. “As a result, Coach Cooley will be suspended for the next game vs. Coppin State. Associate head coach Jeff Battle will coach the team.”
Cooley’s Apology
Following the incident, Cooley released a statement expressing remorse and taking responsibility for his actions.
“I am deeply sorry for my actions during last night’s game, and sincerely apologize to the … family, whom I have known for years and regard as my own family. My conduct was unacceptable and does not represent who I am or the leader I strive to be,” Cooley said Sunday. “I want to also apologize to the Georgetown community, team, fans, the league and my family. I take full responsibility for my actions and their consequences. I will learn from this experience to ensure it never happens again.”
Big East Response
The Big East Conference issued a statement supporting Georgetown’s decision to suspend the coach.
“We have communicated with Georgetown leadership and support their decision to suspend head men’s basketball coach Ed Cooley for his actions following last night’s game against Xavier,” the conference said. “The safety and security of spectators and participants at Big East events is of paramount importance and fundamental to the enjoyment of our games.”
Impact on Georgetown
The Hoyas finished the loss with an overall record of 8-4 and a 1-1 mark in Big East play. Cooley is in his third season with the program after coaching for 12 years at Providence. Georgetown’s record since Cooley’s arrival stands at 35-43.
Battle will lead the team at on-campus McDonough Arena when Georgetown hosts Coppin State on Monday night.
Key Takeaways
- Ed Cooley is suspended for the next game versus Coppin State.
- Jeff Battle will coach the Hoyas in his absence.
- The Big East backs Georgetown’s decision and emphasizes spectator safety.
With the suspension in place, Georgetown will rely on associate head coach Jeff Battle to guide the team in its next outing against Coppin State at McDonough Arena on Monday night, while the program continues to grapple with the fallout from the incident.
