Bob Huggins, West Virginia release statement following apparent use of homophobic slur

West Virginia head coach Bob Huggins made an appearance on a Cincinnati-based radio show on Monday and appeared to use a homophobic slur. He was discussing the rivalry between the Cincinnati Bearcats and Xavier Musketeers. Huggins was on the Cincinnati side as a head coach and during the radio interview, went after Xavier fans.

Huggins has now released a statement on the incident, apologizing for his actions. He said there is no excuse for what was said on the call-in show. While there has been no punishment yet, Huggins did acknowledge he will accept any coming his way.

“Earlier today on a Cincinnati radio program, I was asked about the rivalry between my former employer, the University of Cincinnati, and its crosstown rival, Xavier University,” Huggins said. “During the conversation, I used a completely insensitive and abhorrent phrase that there is simply no use for — and I won’t try to make one here. I deeply apologize to the individuals I have offended, as well as the Xavier University community, the University of Cincinnati, and West Virginia University.

“As I have shared with my players over my 40 years of coaching, there are consequences for our words and actions, and I will fully accept any coming my way. I am ashamed and embarrassed and heartbroken for those I have hurt. I must do better and I will.”

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— WVU Men's Basketball (@WVUhoops) May 8, 2023

Huggins spent just over 15 years with Cincinnati, facing off against Xavier 16 times. He was able to split those games right down the middle, picking up eight wins and eight losses.

Although bitter rivals, Huggins admits the use of the homophobic slur was wrong.

Bob Huggins in hot water following long West Virginia tenure

After the radio call-in incident, Huggins appears to be in hot water with West Virginia. If the program were to move on from Huggins, one of its best-ever head coaches would end his successful tenure in a tumultuous fashion.

Huggins took over before the 2007-2008 season when West Virginia was still a member of the Big East conference. As the Mountaineers transitioned into the Big 12, Huggins was there to steady the ship and has translated that into success.

Only four seasons have not resulted in an NCAA Tournament appearance. The 2010 tournament saw West Virginia making the Final Four for just the second time in program history. However, in more recent times, the second round is as far as Huggins could take his squad.