SerpApi.Org
Former Kentucky linebacker and co-defensive coordinator Jon Sumrall made quite a splash in his SEC Media Days debut on Wednesday. The new Florida head coach dropped some cuss words, jokes, talked about Lane Kiffin, and lit up the main room in Tampa. One former men’s college basketball coach was not impressed with his antics.
Sumrall’s first coaching rivalry at Florida is with Tom Crean. Who saw this coming?
The former Troy and Tulane head coach had some fun with a reporter when a phone rang and wasn’t hung up for more than a few seconds. That led to a fun moment the Marriott Tampa Water Street. Former Marquette, Indiana, and Georgia head coach Crean wasn’t impressed. I guess that Cocktail Party rivalry just stays heated at all times.
“He can’t be serious on embarrassing that person. Do you think they meant for the phone to go off? Did it really need that performative reaction? At least you got laughs at that person’s expense,” Crean posted on X. “They don’t work for you or play for you. Their job is important to them, too!!!”
Crean was not the only one to give Sumrall a hard time for that moment on Wednesday morning. Folks on social media seem split on the reaction of the Alabama native who played for Hal Mumme, Guy Morriss, and Rich Brooks in Lexington. No matter what you think, another viral moment was created in Tampa.
Will Stein made a bunch of noise on Monday with his “because of me” answer. Now Sumrall made a splash with phonegate at SEC Media Days. These two first-year coaches have aced the offseason and have fan bases excited for 2026. That adds some stakes to the 76th meeting of this SEC series. Sumrall will attempt to regain dominance for the Gators. Stein will look to continue Kentucky’s recent surge against Florida.
These new faces in the SEC with connections to Kentucky gave us some “what a sport” moments during talking season.
