Bob Huggins issues apology for using slur during radio interview

“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.

“During the conversation, I used a completely insensitive and abhorrent phrase that there is simply no excuse for — and I won’t try to make one here.

“I deeply apologize to the individuals I have offended, as well as to 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,” Huggins said in his statement.

West Virginia Athletics also shared a statement.

“Coach Huggins’ remarks today on a Cincinnati radio show were insensitive, offensive and do not represent our university values. Coach Huggins has since apologized. West Virginia University does not condone the use of such language and takes such actions very seriously. The situation is under review and will be addressed by the university and its athletics department,” their statement said.

Huggins has been the head coach at West Virginia since 2007. The 69-year-old has 934 career coaching wins and was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2022.