Seton Hall basketball rolls past Wagner, but coaches squabble postgame

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In a showdown between two former Seton Hall stars who have risen to the esteemed position of Division 1 head coaches, the dynamic on Saturday devolved into an awkward post-game confrontation. Seton Hall’s Shaheen Holloway and Wagner’s Donald Copeland shook hands in a contentious manner after Holloway’s Pirates cruised to a 72-51 win. This sour moment cast a shadow over the game, which should have been celebratory given that five former Seton Hall players are now NCAA Division 1 head coaches. This fact is a point of pride for the program and its alumni, second only to Duke in terms of former players turned coaches.

Both coaches expressed remorse afterward. Holloway took full responsibility and expressed disappointment at his own actions. He mentioned that friendships go out the window when competition is involved and acknowledged that all was not handled appropriately. Copeland also apologized and took accountability for the misunderstanding.

Allegedly, the tension arose after a late foul during the game. In a post-game handshake, a heated argument regarding the foul turned into a regrettable scene. Both coaches emphasized that they have respect for each other and that their actions were not reflective of mutual admiration.

Amidst all the drama, Holloway concluded with words of reconciliation and understanding, emphasizing the shared connection that bonds former players and the importance of unity.

In summary, the game showcased the Pirates’ good ball movement, but also highlighted concerns about their outside shooting accuracy. Furthermore, injuries forced key players to sit out, leading to reshuffling of the roster. Wagner, led by Copeland, demonstrated a strong defensive strategy reflective of their coach’s renowned playing style. Looking ahead, the Pirates face looming challenges against tougher competition, which will further test the team’s mettle.

Jerry Carino, a seasoned sports journalist, has been covering New Jersey sports and college basketball for over two decades and is recognized as an Associated Press Top 25 voter. You can reach out to Jerry at [email protected].

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Laura Davis

Laura Davis covers the world of basketball with precision. Her articles explore NBA and college basketball, offering game analysis, player profiles, and highlights. Laura’s passion for hoops is evident in her comprehensive basketball coverage.