Ohio State’s E.J. Liddell Receives Threatening Messages Following Loss To Oral Roberts

Sophomore forward E.J. Liddell received threatening messages on social media following Ohio State’s loss to No. 15 seed Oral Roberts in the first round of the NCAA Tournament on Friday afternoon, which he shared on Twitter early Saturday morning.

Honestly, what did I do to deserve this? I’m human. pic.twitter.com/djXzhSH0q8

— E.J. Liddell (@EasyE2432) March 20, 2021

A sophomore from Belleville, Ill., Liddell had 23 points and 14 rebounds to lead the second-seeded Buckeyes in the 75-72 overtime loss to the Golden Eagles.

This is not me saying anything negative about Ohio State fans. I love you all dearly and I’ve felt nothing but appreciated since the first day I stepped on campus.

— E.J. Liddell (@EasyE2432) March 20, 2021

Ohio State head coach Chris Holtmann issued a statement Saturday morning regarding the incident.

pic.twitter.com/jY7hfDoC14

— Chris Holtmann (@ChrisHoltmann) March 20, 2021

Athletic director Gene Smith also released a statement Saturday morning condemning the messages. He promised the university would get the police involved, as well.

I will support our student-athletes in and out of competition!

I have nothing but love and respect for E.J. He epitomizes all that we hope for in our student-athletes. pic.twitter.com/BxejMWvo1x

— Gene Smith (@OSU_AD) March 20, 2021

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