The University of Oklahoma has released a statement after a fan was caught throwing a beverage can at the University of Kentucky men’s basketball team Wednesday night.
The incident took place following the Wildcats’ thrilling 83-82 victory over the Sooners after former Sooner guard Otega Oweh hit a go-ahead layup with six seconds remaining. The Kentucky players were leaving the court up the south tunnel when the beverage was seen directed towards the team.
Someone threw a beer can at Kentucky players as they left the court. Nearly hit Brandon Garrison in the head. pic.twitter.com/OH14N5wPDk
— Adam Stratton (@AdamStrattonKSR) February 27, 2025
“We are aware of an incident that occurred following last night’s men’s basketball contest against Kentucky involving the throwing of a beverage can towards players,” the university statement read. “We are closely reviewing all available footage and are working to identify involved parties. We are also in communication with the Southeastern Conference. Anyone with information regarding the incident should provide that by emailing oah@ou.edu.
“The University of Oklahoma does not in any way condone this type of fan behavior and it will not be tolerated. We will take appropriate and necessary action against anyone who conducts themself in such a manner. We apologize to University of Kentucky players, coaches and fans.”
Kentucky sophomore forward Brandon Garrison is seen leaving the court in the video. Garrison was involved in the final play where Oklahoma freshman guard Jeremiah Fears had his game-winning layup attempt blocked by Garrison and two other Wildcats.
Following the play, Garrison got in Fears’ face and began talking with the freshman. Garrison and Fears had to be separated by players and coaches from both teams, which was then followed by an unsuccessful postgame handshake line between the two teams.
Garrison, who is from Oklahoma City and transferred to the Wildcats from Oklahoma State, said it was fun to be back in Oklahoma for a game against the Sooners and made mention of the hostility of the Lloyd Noble Center crowd throughout the night.
“Obviously, it was a hostile crowd given the circumstances of the game,” Garrison said after the Wildcats’ victory. “It was nice to come in here and come away with a hard-fought victory.”
Garrison did not mention the incident during post-game media availability.
The Sooners play against the University of Mississippi (19-9, 8-7) at 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 1 in Oxford, Mississippi.
This story was edited by Peggy Dodd.
