You Won’t Believe What Happened at Georgetown’s Game That Got the Coach Suspended

Ed Cooley, head coach of the Georgetown Hoyas Men’s basketball team, will not be on the sidelines for the squad’s next game.

According to ESPN, Cooley has been suspended for one game following an incident where he threw a water bottle into the stands that struck a mother and child sitting a few rows behind the Hoyas’ bench. The outburst occurred immediately after the Hoyas’ 80-77 loss to Xavier. Cooley was triggered by a missed game-tying three-pointer at the buzzer.

Jeff Battle, the associate head coach, will lead the team during Cooley’s suspension.

In a statement after his suspension was handed down, Cooley apologized, noting that he is close with the family of the child who was struck by the thrown water bottle.

“I am deeply sorry for my actions during last night’s game, and sincerely apologize to the Nyahkoon family, whom I have known for years and regard as my own family,” Cooley said. “My conduct was unacceptable and does not represent who I am or the leader I strive to be. 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.”

Lee Reed, Georgetown Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Lee Reed also released a statement.

“I met with Coach Cooley today to discuss the incident that occurred after last night’s game against Xavier,” Reed said. “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. As a result, Coach Cooley will be suspended for the next game vs. Coppin State.”

The Big East, where Georgetown has been a member since the conference’s inception, supported the school’s decision.

“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 league 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.”

The loss to Xavier was Georgetown’s fourth loss in its past seven games. Last season, Cooley led the Hoyas to win 18 games, doubling his win total from his first year in 2023-24.

Georgetown has not made the NCAA tournament since the 2020-21 season.