ESPN reporter Holly Rowe held a very awkward and somewhat uncomfortable interview with John Calipari on Saturday.
The Kentucky coach and reporter chatted during the Wildcats’ game with the Tennessee Volunteers. Rowe asked Calipari what he said during a timeout he took earlier in the game. Then, for some reason, Coach Cal put his hands on Rowe’s shoulders and interrupted her question.
Video provided by user @Return_Of_RB showed the very awkward encounter between the reporter and the coach.
Things aren’t bad enough at Kentucky ? Cal almost choked Holly Rowe !!!! pic.twitter.com/UajquOGVGp
— Rico Bo$co (@Return_Of_RB) January 14, 2023
So, that was odd. Usually, the interview subject probably shouldn’t put his hands on the reporter. Whether in a light manner or not, one can argue about the professionalism aspect here. As many proceeded to do on Twitter after the odd showing occurred.
“Keep your hands off Holly!” tweeted Mike Vernon.
Keep your hands off Holly! https://t.co/6IhRU2IIkh
— Mike Vernon (@M_Vernon) January 14, 2023
WCJB anchor Jake Rongholt tweeted, “Professionalism from one of the best. As for another…don’t touch the reporter.”
Professionalism from one of the best. As for another…don't touch the reporter. https://t.co/oBqf8rHkpw
— Jake Rongholt WCJB (@BothSidesSports) January 14, 2023
Veteran college hoops writer Russell Steinberg of Boardroom tweeted, “What the hell was John Calipari doing right there? A. Please don’t touch Holly Rowe B. Let her ask a question.”
What the hell was John Calipari doing right there? A. Please don't touch Holly Rowe B. Let her ask a question.
— Russell Steinberg (@Russ_Steinberg) January 14, 2023
Further scorn and displays of awkwardness continued on Twitter all afternoon after the interview. Whether it was in a light manner or not, Calipari came under fire for the overt use of his hands on Rowe on Saturday afternoon. Now the question will be if and when he responds.
