When Arizona coach Tommy Lloyd was asked Thursday his thoughts on the Big 12 Tournament being played on an LED glass court, Lloyd remarked that the games could be played on asphalt for all he cared.
Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark didn’t take Lloyd’s advice, but the conference is moving away from the controversial glass court for the remainder of the tournament, replacing it with traditional hardwood.
“After consultation with the coaches of our four semifinal teams, I have decided that in order to
provide our student-athletes with the greatest level of comfort on a huge stage this weekend, we will transition to a hardwood court for the remainder of the tournament,” Yormark said in a statement to CBS Sports’ Matt Norlander. “We look forward to a great semifinals and championship game.”
The LED glass court, installed for both the men’s and women’s conference tournaments at T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, drew mixed feedback from players and coaches. Texas Tech’s Christian Anderson appeared to injury his groin Thursday while slipping on the glass court in the Red Raiders’ loss to Iowa State.
Arizona’s Motiejus Krivas and Brayden Burries were asked about the court after the UA’s quarterfinal win over UCF and both downplayed
“It’s a little bit different, but no big differences. I think it’s good for the fans on the arena and the TV, so all thumbs up,” Krivas said.
Added Burries, “I think you’ve just got to get used to it real quick. Just the first five minutes when you’re warming up, just get used to it. But other than that, it’s pretty good.”
Players from other participating Big 12 teams were more critical of the court, which has the ability to change designs.
“All the players hate it,” one person told CBS Sports.
The players (and coaches) spoke and the conference listened. Wood it is.
Arizona faces Iowa State in the Big 12 Tournament semifinals at 4 p.m. Friday on ESPN.
