UNC women’s basketball coach apologizes for calling NC State fans ‘classless’

North Carolina women’s basketball coach Courtney Banghart has apologized for calling NC State fans “classless” during a podcast interview.

Here’s her apology:

“While intending to keep the competitive energy fueled between two passionate fan bases, I took it too far. I carelessly used the word ‘classless’ in reference to the passionate fans of NC State and I deeply regret my word choice,” Banghart said in a statement, via Carolina Women’s Basketball’s Twitter. “It doesn’t accurately depict my feelings, for one, and there is no place for name-calling.”

Banghart, who has been UNC’s head coach since April 2019, was asked which rival she enjoys beating more: NC State or Duke? Banghart paid respect to Duke’s global image and brand, then she noted how difficult it was for her team to play at NC State.

“Duke is an international rivalry that I love,” Banghart said. “NC State fans are so classless I just don’t even like going there. “I have more respect for Duke, but I like beating them because they are more relevant. NC State is just mean to us.”

Here’s the full clip:

 

When North Carolina visits Raleigh in the 2022-2023 season, it will be interesting to see if the Wolfpack fans accept Banghart’s apology.