Oklahoma State football coach Mike Gundy apologizes to players, says ‘Black lives matter to me’

STILLWATER, Okla. — Oklahoma State coach Mike Gundy sat in front of the camera and forcefully delivered an apology.

He disassociated with One America News Network — a far-right, pro-Donald Trump cable news network rated by Media Bias/Fact Check as being “not a credible news source” — by saying he was “disgusted” when he learned of the network’s controversial view on the organization Black Lives Matter and its movement.

Gundy sided with his players, many of whom protested program-related activities alongside superstar Chuba Hubbard after a photo of Gundy wearing an OAN Network shirt was posted on social media.

“I want to apologize to all members of our team, former players and their families for the pain and discomfort that has been caused over the last two days,” Gundy said. “Black lives matter to me. Our players matter to me.”

He then promised changes within the program.

“These meetings with our team have been eye-opening and will result in positive changes for Oklahoma State football,” Gundy concluded.

To cap perhaps the wildest 36 hours in OSU offseason history, Gundy showed remorse in a minute-long video aimed to reunite his program.

“A step in the right direction,” Hubbard tweeted.

OSU safety Tre Sterling also tweeted: “Real men accept their mistakes and make them right! I respect our Coach and everyone else needs to! Let’s get the season going!”

Just 24 hours before, OSU players threatened a boycott of the program and Gundy. Hubbard began the movement with a tweet.

“I will not stand for this,” Hubbard tweeted about a photo of Gundy wearing an OAN Network shirt. “This is completely insensitive to everything going on in society, and it’s unacceptable. I will not be doing anything with Oklahoma State until things CHANGE.”

Several current and former players supported Hubbard’s tweet. Gundy’s words in April favoring the network weren’t unnoticed. Several former players alluded to more behind-the-scenes problems.

OSU president Burns Hargis and athletic director Mike Holder each issued statements supporting the players.

Before nightfall, Gundy and Hubbard hugged in a video together, with Hubbard apologizing for not approaching Gundy in person. Gundy promised changes, but did not apologize.

On Tuesday, Hubbard offered more clarity on his video comments, but did not back down from his original stance.

“I had to hold him accountable either way,” Hubbard wrote. “I am glad things happened the way they did because things are being changed as we speak!”

By Tuesday evening, Hubbard’s movement took a giant leap forward.

Gundy said he met with players throughout the day. Their view of his T-shirt was heard. He said he listened.

“I sincerely hope the Oklahoma State family near and far will accept my humble apology as we move forward,” Gundy said.

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