In a moment that should have been pure celebration, Houston Cougars legend Hakeem Olajuwon found himself unable to join his alma mater on the court following their thrilling 70-67 victory over Duke in the NCAA Tournament Final Four.
Olajuwon attended the game to support the Cougars, a program he helped elevate during his college career from 1981 to 1984. As the Cougars secured their spot in the championship game, Olajuwon attempted to step onto the court to celebrate with the team. However, security personnel stopped the 62-year-old Hall of Famer, denying him access despite his status as one of Houston’s most revered figures.
Witnesses reported that someone from the Cougars’ entourage tried to vouch for Olajuwon, but their efforts were unsuccessful. The legendary center was forced to step back, visibly disappointed, as the team celebrated their historic win.
In Houston’s win over Duke, program legend Hakeem Olajuwon was hoping to join the team on the court in celebration, but security wasn’t having it.
One man even tried to vouch for him, but no luck pic.twitter.com/tlncbOMhoX
— Chancellor Johnson (@ChancellorTV) April 6, 2025
