Kelvin Sampson sets the standard for coaches to be ejected in 2024.
The University of Houston basketball coach got enough of it that he screamed across the court at one referee on Tuesday night, then cornered the others. Thanks to that, the Cougars went up 20 points and won the championship.
“Kelvin is proving a point here, but I think he overreacted.” ESPN’s Fran Frascilla said:.
Sampson did not comment on what triggered him during No. 5 Houston’s 79-63 win over Oklahoma State.
“I don’t think anything of it,” Sampson said. “If I say something, if I answer the question, I’ll be fined $25,000, but what part of the $25,000 are you willing to pay?” So, if I tell you the truth, I’ll be fined $25,000 Please don’t ask stupid questions. So please don’t ask me because I can’t do it. I learned that from (Baylor athletic director) Mack Rhodes. ”
With 15:08 left in the second half and his team leading 49-29, Sampson lost his cool when the referee missed a shot that hit him in the back, giving Oklahoma State a bucket.
The 68-year-old then walked to the other side of the court and shouted at one of the umpires, pointing at him and using his hands to get his point across.
When another referee ejected him, Sampson was held back and began to give the referee work.
He then turned and listened to the third official before heading to the locker room.
It’s not often that you see a coach doing everything in his power to earn an ejection, but Sampson was clearly disgusted by what he saw.
Frascilla said the physicality allowed by referees in the Big 12 over the past two weeks was “unacceptable” and suggested Sampson may have reached his breaking point.
Houston improved to 20-3 and 7-3 in Big 12 play with Tuesday’s win and currently sits atop the conference standings, a half-game behind Baylor and Iowa State.
