The University of Connecticut's men's basketball team's fifth national championship victory in April sparked widespread celebrations, but unfortunately, some of the festivities took a destructive turn. The resulting riots caused significant damage, estimated at approximately $122,800, according to university officials.
The post-championship riots, primarily involving students, led to a range of destructive acts, including setting fires, overturning a vehicle, and damaging light poles. One light pole was even used to force entry into a building, as reported by CT Insider.
General view of the UConn Huskies logo on a pair of game shorts during the college basketball against Providence Friars on January 4, 2023, at Amica Mutual Pavilion in Providence, RI. (M. Anthony Nesmith/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
The university has taken disciplinary action, with some students being expelled for their involvement in the vandalism. UConn spokesperson Stephanie Reitz confirmed the expulsions earlier this month, stating that investigations are still ongoing for other students involved in the campus vandalism. Several individuals have already been charged, and more charges are expected.
Reitz also revealed the estimated cost of the damages, noting that the final tally is expected to be considerably higher once all costs, including labor for repairs, are factored in. "With those costs included once final invoices are received and paid, the university expects the final cost to be significantly higher than what we were able to reflect in our first round of reporting to auditors," the school stated.
UConn Huskies head coach Dan Hurley reacts after arriving at the rally during the UConn Championship Parade on April 8, 2023, at the XL Center in Hartford, CT. (Erica Denhoff/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
As of Tuesday, UConn police have charged 22 individuals in connection with the riots, 16 of whom were students. Fifteen arrests were made on the night of the championship game, and warrants have been issued for nine additional individuals.
The Huskies dominated the tournament, defeating each opponent by double digits, culminating in a decisive victory against San Diego State University in the final game. Their average margin of victory throughout the tournament was an impressive 20 points.
Connecticut head coach Dan Hurley celebrates during the net cutting after the men's national championship college basketball game against San Diego State in the NCAA Tournament on Monday, April 3, 2023, in Houston. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)
While the championship win was a cause for celebration, the ensuing riots resulted in extensive property damage, arrests, and ongoing investigations. Sixteen individuals sustained minor injuries requiring hospital treatment.
