If you thought Pat McAfee’s in-game words for the Knicks’ celebrity fans were harsh, his response to John Mellencamp’s criticism is a whole new level.
“John: shut the f–k up,” McAfee said during a rant on Friday’s episode of the “Pat McAfee Show.”
McAfee was given the microphone during the Pacers’ Game 4 win over the Knicks and let Spike Lee, Ben Stiller and Timothée Chalamet feel the wrath of Indiana fans, encouraging the Pacers faithful to “send these sons of bitches back to New York with their ears ringing.”
“Johnny Cougar,” a native of the “Hoosier State,” then posted a long-winded statement about his disappointment in McAfee and Pacers fans for supporting him.
“‘Hoosier Hospitality’ … I was embarrassed when somebody, under whose direction I don’t know, called out some of the people who had made the trip from New York to support their team — and in turn, support our team,” Mellencamp wrote. “The audience booed these people. I’d say that was not Hoosier Hospitality. One could only say it’s poor, poor sportsmanship. I was not proud to be a Hoosier, and I’ve lived here my entire life.
“On behalf of most Hoosiers, I would like to apologize for our poor behavior. I’m sure the Pacers had nothing to do with this smackdown.”
McAfee, the former Colts punter and current WWE announcer whose self-titled ESPN show is filmed in Indianapolis, defended his actions as typical home-fan behavior.
“When the Knicks are playing in Gainbridge, I believe there’s gonna be some boos, there might be some negative things said towards the other team,” McAfee sarcastically said. “That is kind of how sports work.”
McAfee’s words escalated quickly from there.
“What a moment for John Coug’ yesterday,” he said in the midst of his rant. “John: I can’t tell you how bad everything you did here was. Everything. The graphic, the quote, the timing — you’re two days late, John … [The post] doesn’t even say my name.”
With Game 6 back at Gainbridge Fieldhouse Saturday night, the two’s paths could cross in what would surely be a tense interaction.
“You thought you were gonna bury me? I don’t think so, John!” McAfee said to conclude the segment. “Hey Coug’. Suck it buddy. Hope I get the chance to see you real soon, I think we’re probably gonna be at the same place pretty soon. I don’t want any of your bulls–t, I don’t like you.”