Virginia's Darion Atkins apologizes after calling teammates 'p-----s'
Virginia forward Darion Atkins had a rather regretful moment during a postgame interview following his final appearance in a Cavalier uniform on Sunday, and now he wishes to take it back.
The 6-foot-8, 241-pound senior responded to a question in reference to an animated timeout exchange he had with assistant coach Jason Williford, and used an explicit term to refer to his teammates.
"I felt like we were just playing like some pussies to be honest," said Atkins. "I mean. I don't know."
On Monday, he issued an apology:
Darion Atkins Statement: "I would like to apologize for my inappropriate comments to the media in Charlotte. I let my emotions get the...
— UVa Men's Basketball (@UVAMensHoops) March 23, 2015
best of me during the NCAA Tournament and I did not intend to offend anyone. In hindsight I wish I had used more appropriate words...
— UVa Men's Basketball (@UVAMensHoops) March 23, 2015
to express myself. I’ve met with my teammates and coaches to express my remorse for this unfortunate situation. I want everyone to know...
— UVa Men's Basketball (@UVAMensHoops) March 23, 2015
that I care so much about this program, and I hope this does not become a distraction from all that we were able to accomplish this year."
— UVa Men's Basketball (@UVAMensHoops) March 23, 2015
Atkins, who averaged 7.6 points and six rebounds for the No. 2 Spartans, scored 10 points with 14 rebounds and a pair of blocks in a 60-54 upset to No. 7 Michigan State.
HEADLINES
- Judge denies Zeigler's preliminary injunction request to play 5th season
- Report: 76ers reached out to Spurs about acquiring No. 2 pick
- NCAA approves coach's challenges for men's, women's basketball
- Dick Vitale gets extension with ESPN, college basketball event in his honor
- Judge OKs House v. NCAA settlement to allow revenue sharing with athletes