Former WNBA All-Star Rebecca Lobo made a remark about the lack of activities in Albany, New York during a highly-anticipated NCAA Division I women’s basketball tournament Elite Eight game between the Iowa Hawkeyes and LSU Tigers. Lobo’s comments came after a broadcaster mentioned that Iowa star Caitlin Clark’s family was looking for entertainment options in the area, to which Clark responded by saying she was staying in her room and waiting for the game. Lobo chimed in with a sarcastic remark about finding things to do in Albany, which left some Albany natives feeling slighted.
Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan responded to Lobo’s comment by offering to give her a tour of the city and highlighting the various attractions and activities that Albany has to offer. She mentioned the city’s museums, Capitol building, restaurants, and basketball games as just a few things that visitors can enjoy. Lobo later responded to the backlash on social media, clarifying that she did not intend to throw shade at Albany and had enjoyed spending time in the area in the past while coaching her kids’ AAU teams.
Despite the controversy surrounding Lobo’s comments, Caitlin Clark led the Iowa Hawkeyes to victory over LSU with 41 points and helped secure a spot in the Final Four where they will face UConn on April 5. The game was highly anticipated and drew attention not only for the exciting gameplay but also for the offhand remark made by Lobo about the lack of activities in Albany. Despite the initial backlash, Lobo and Mayor Sheehan seem to have resolved any tension, and Lobo expressed her appreciation for the city’s hosting of the regional game. The incident serves as a reminder of the impact of offhand comments and the importance of showcasing all that a city has to offer to visitors.
