Mike Brey responds to ACC's $20K fine against Notre Dame
NOTRE DAME — The Atlantic Coast Conference issued a public reprimand of Notre Dame head men’s basketball coach Mike Brey for violating the ACC Sportsmanship Policy following Notre Dame’s game against Florida State on January 25. In addition the league is fining Notre Dame $20,000 for the violation.
After Saturday's Notre Dame's 85-84 loss at Florida State Saturday night, Brey was critical of several off the officials calls late in game, including a bench technical.
"We're treated by the officials like we haven't brought football as a full member, but yet we get a full share of the ACC Network TV," Brey said. "Are you kidding me? He's T's up our bench from across the court because he's pissed off at us? I'm frustrated, man."
Brey walked off the interview podium and continued to criticize the officials, specifically mentioning referee John Gaffney.
"You got to be kidding me, man. We're in the league, too. C'mon."
Brey’s postgame comments regarding officials were in direct violation of the ACC Sportsmanship Policy that states, “Public criticism of officials or public comments evaluating the officiating of particular contests is not in the best interest of intercollegiate athletics. Individuals associated with the athletics program are prohibited, therefore, from commenting while acting in an official capacity on officiating other than directly to the Conference office.”
On Monday, Brey accepted responsibility for his comments.
"I accept my reprimand for my comments. I'll take my medicine like a man and accept responsibility. I'll try to be a good guy the rest of the season"
"I've been pretty good at (controlling my emotions) through my 20 years, of not letting them get the best of me. They did the other night and I paid for it."
Saturday night's loss dropped Notre Dame to 2-6 in ACC play. Notre Dame's last 5 losses in the ACC have all been by five points or less.
The Irish return to action Wednesday night, when they host Wake Forest (9-10, 2-7) at Purcell Pavilion.
