Seton Hall’s Holloway Apologizes for Outburst During Handshake With Wagner’s Copeland

Seton Hall men’s basketball coach Shaheen Holloway apologized for his outburst directed at Wagner coach Donald Copeland when shaking hands after the Pirates’ 72–51 win.

“I take full responsibility for that,” Holloway said, via Asbury Park Press writer Jerry Carino. “I like Donald. I respect him. He’s a good person, a good player and a good coach.” 

As Holloway and Copeland shook hands after the game, the two were caught on camera getting into an argument. Holloway, who appeared to initiate the exchange, threw Copeland’s hand away, at which point assistant coaches on both teams separated the two.

According to Carino, Holloway’s issue appeared to be that Wagner put on the press late in the game, when the outcome was essentially decided.

Shaheen Holloway was NOT having it with Donald Copeland in the postgame handshake line ???? pic.twitter.com/n2wvKG8j1O

— The Field of 68 (@TheFieldOf68) November 18, 2023

Holloway and Copeland have a history together, as they both played college basketball at Seton Hall. While the two never played together, Holloway mentioned that they have developed a strong relationship.

Copeland also apologized for his role in the exchange, saying that he also should have reacted better.

"I am embarrassed. I want to apologize to my team for what went on,” Copeland said, via Carino. “I have a ton of respect for Sha. He’s a competitor, I’m a competitor too. That’s part of what went on. It’s unfortunate what happened for him and me. …But I want to coach my team from start to finish.”