WATCH: Jim Boeheim has contentious back and forth with reporter over Benny Williams' absence
Jim Boeheim has had many back-and-forth debates with journalists over the years, and the Syracuse head coach got into another spat with a reporter on Monday.
After Monday’s 67-62 loss to Virginia, a reporter asked Boeheim about Benny Williams, who did not play in the game.
Something about the question ticked off the 78-year-old head coach.
The back and forth between Jim Boeheim and the reporter
“Coach, what’s the status on Benny Williams?” the reporter asked.
“Is that your question? That’s the most important question you have?” Boeheim responded.
“He wasn’t on the court today,” the reporter said.
“Is that your most important question here?” Boeheim said.
“I’m just curious. He wasn’t on the court today,” the reporter said.
“I will answer,” Boeheim said.
“Ok,” the reporter said.
“Your attitude isn’t really good either,” Boeheim said before finally answering the question. “Benny took a personal day. He will be back at practice on Wednesday.”
Syracuse is struggling
The loss to Virginia has dropped Syracuse to 13-10 on the season and 6-6 in conference play. The team has also lost three straight with defeats to North Carolina, Virginia Tech and then the Cavaliers.
Missing Benny Williams was a major loss for the team in the game. Williams has started 20 of his 21 games this season and is fourth on the team in minutes. He averages 6.8 points and 4.1 rebounds per game.
Judah Mintz led the way for the Orange against Virginia with 20 points and four rebounds. Jesse Edwards also added 14 points and seven rebounds.