Oklahoma State Coach Mike Gundy Apologizes After Controversy Over OAN T-Shirt Sparks Player Backlash
In a rare moment of tension at Oklahoma State University, head football coach Mike Gundy issued a heartfelt apology following backlash from his star running back, Chuba Hubbard, over Gundy’s decision to wear a One America News Network (OAN) T-shirt.
Hubbard, an acclaimed athlete who was a unanimous All-American and Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year in 2019, publicly expressed his disappointment via Twitter. “I will not stand for this,” Hubbard wrote, calling the choice “completely insensitive” given the nation’s ongoing conversations about racial justice. “I will not be doing anything with Oklahoma State until things CHANGE.”
The social media post sparked a team-wide discussion, prompting Gundy to meet with Hubbard and his teammates. “My players helped me see through their eyes how the T-shirt affected their hearts,” Gundy said in a video apology. “Once I learned how that network felt about Black Lives Matter, I was disgusted and knew it was completely unacceptable to me.”
Gundy continued, “I want to apologize to all members of our team, former players, and their families for the pain and discomfort caused over the last two days. Black lives matter to me. Our players matter to me. These meetings have been eye-opening and will lead to positive changes for Oklahoma State football.”
OAN, a conservative news outlet often promoted by former President Donald Trump, is known for its pro-Trump commentary and has been criticized for spreading right-wing conspiracy theories. Gundy had previously praised the network, describing its coverage as “refreshing” for its lack of political commentary.
Hubbard later acknowledged that his initial tweet may not have been the best approach but emphasized that the focus is now on “bringing change.” He reassured fans, “No don’t get it twisted. Foots still on the gas. Results are coming. It’s not over.”
The controversy drew swift support from within the Oklahoma State community, including team captain Amen Ogbongbemiga and Baltimore Ravens running back and OSU alumnus Justice Hill. Hill tweeted his support for Hubbard, calling for “major change” within OSU Athletics and the university.
University President Burns Hargis responded on Twitter, emphasizing unity and a commitment to confronting racial inequities. “We will not tolerate insensitive behavior by anyone at Oklahoma State,” he wrote. Meanwhile, Athletic Director Mike Holder described the situation as “very disturbing” and expressed grave concern over the players’ tweets.
This episode highlights the ongoing challenges faced by collegiate athletics programs as they navigate complex social issues and the expectations of their players and communities.
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