Villanova's Willard Dismisses Maryland Fans Who Traveled to Boo Him

Villanova basketball coach Kevin Willard had a blunt message for Maryland fans who came to heckle him during a game against Georgetown.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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Villanova basketball head coach Kevin Willard had a strong response for Maryland fans who traveled to Washington, D.C. to boo him during Villanova's game against Georgetown. Willard's Wildcats defeated Georgetown 80-73, and afterwards Willard criticized the Maryland fans, saying "They wasted a Saturday. I don't know what the f**k they were doing." Willard previously coached at Maryland before taking the Villanova job.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the intense rivalries and emotions that can surround college basketball, especially when a coach leaves one program to join a rival. Willard's comments also speak to the passion of college basketball fans, who are willing to travel to heckle a former coach they feel wronged their team.

The details

Villanova trailed Georgetown by three points at halftime, but took control in the second half behind a strong performance from freshman guard Acaden Lewis, who scored 17 of his 26 points in the second half. The win improved Villanova's record to 18-7 overall and 9-3 in Big East play, completing a regular season sweep of Georgetown.

  • The game was played on Saturday, February 8, 2026.

The players

Kevin Willard

The head coach of the Villanova Wildcats basketball team. Willard previously coached at Maryland for three seasons before taking the Villanova job.

Acaden Lewis

A freshman guard for the Villanova Wildcats who scored 26 points, including 17 in the second half, to lead Villanova to victory over Georgetown.

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What they’re saying

“They wasted a Saturday. I don't know what the f**k they were doing. I mean, they've got nothing better to do on a Saturday than to come look at my bald a**. I don't know what they're doing.”

— Kevin Willard, Head Coach, Villanova Wildcats (ESPN)

What’s next

Willard and the Wildcats will look to continue their strong play on Tuesday when they host the Marquette Golden Eagles.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the intense rivalries and emotions that can surround college basketball, especially when a coach leaves one program to join a rival. Willard's comments also highlight the passion of college basketball fans, who are willing to travel to heckle a former coach they feel wronged their team.