The mother of a popular college basketball recruit caused her son’s college announcement to go viral for all the wrong reasons.
Jacob Copeland sat alongside his mother on Wednesday as he declared which university he’d be attending. The moment was televised by ESPN.
After announcing he’d be going to the University of Florida, his mother, who’d been sporting gear from Alabama and Tennessee universities, promptly proceeded to make sure her disapproval was evident through her facial expression before standing up and walking away. Copeland, who although clearly hurt, continued on with the televised announcement.
Jacob Copeland's mother — in an Alabama sweater and Tennessee hat — just got up and left after he announced he was going to Florida pic.twitter.com/tOZHnZeamv
— Sports Illustrated (@SInow) February 7, 2018
When later asked by a cameraman why his mother walked out, he responded with: “I don’t know.”
Despite detracting from her son’s big moment, she eventually came back and the two hugged and made up. Copeland even made light of the moment on Twitter later that night.
What my mama did today was hilarious 😂 if you knew her personally that’s her job. PUT ON A SHOW! 🤦🏾♂️😂😂
— Jacob Copeland (@JCope1era) February 7, 2018