Rebecca Lobo won’t be getting any free meals next time she stops in Albany.
As top-seeded Iowa secured their Elite Eight victory over third-seeded LSU on Monday night, ESPN’s Ryan Ruocco took the opportunity to share a story while Caitlin Clark was shooting free throws with 41.9 seconds left in the game.
As ESPN’s camera crew focused on Clark’s family in the stands, Ruocco recounted how they had reached out to him, expressing their desire to spend time with her before the crucial game.
“They’ve been reaching out to me, and I’ve told them, ‘Just go find something to do in Albany! I’m staying in my room and just waiting for the game.'”
At that moment, ESPN women’s basketball analyst Rebecca Lobo interjected with an unexpected jab at the city of Albany.
“By the way, good luck finding something to do in Albany,” Lobo quipped.
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Lobo’s humorous remark about Albany was made in jest and without any ill intent. However, it didn’t stop social media from buzzing with reactions to Lobo’s lighthearted comment.
Lobo later clarified her Albany slander:
Albany’s Mayor Kathy Sheehan took to “X” in response to Lobo, hoping to catch her before she left town.
“There’s plenty to do if you take the time to look — some of the nation’s oldest museums, a stately Capitol, award-winning restaurants, and a basketball game or two downtown. (Rebecca) let’s take a ride before you leave town. Happy to show you all there is to see and do.” Mayor Kathy Sheehan on “X”
On a separate note, The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a winter storm watch covering portions of New York from Wednesday morning through Thursday night. Anticipated snowfall totals in some areas could exceed 7 inches.