Social media can be a very harsh place, especially when it comes to sports fandom.
One minute they love you, the next they want to run you out of town.
Jae'Lyn Withers made a costly mistake late in the UNC basketball program's eventual loss to Duke on Friday night, being charged with a lane violation (one that wiped away a Ven-Allen Lubin game-tying free throw). Shortly after the play, and following the conclusion of the game, social media erupted, as some uncalled for posts were made.
We're here to tell you: keep your harsh comments to yourself and grow up.
The same people who praised Withers for his seven three-point performance just two days ago are likely among the group pulling him down following the loss to Duke. We truly live in a world where it's more about "what have you done for me lately?" rather than "what have you done for us over the long run."
Sorry to burst your bubble, but North Carolina doesn't go on its late season surge without Withers.
It's bad enough that Withers made such a big mistake, but then those on social media feel the need to rip him about it. Let me tell you: making horrible posts toward a student-athlete (regardless of their age or how much NIL money they make) is uncalled for and not needed.
At least Jae'Lyn Withers cares about it this much. That's rough, man. Duke gets Carolina for a third time this season. pic.twitter.com/oCSJNMF6hK
— Timmy Hall🎙 (@TimmyHallRadio) March 15, 2025
You can say all you want about how "college athletes are paid and should be treated like professionals," but in reality, when did we lose sight of how to treat humans?
We ALL make mistakes, Withers' just unfortunately happened in a critical moment. Let's not act like that was the outcome he was hoping for because, quite frankly, I'm sure he would do anything to have that moment back to avoid that from happening to his team.
Seth Trimble has the right mindset. It was a TEAM effort, as Withers can't solely be blamed for the loss.
Seth Trimble: “We had that game … but I’m not bashing J-Wit. I missed three free throws.” pic.twitter.com/lePaNOp1sG
— Josh Graham (@JoshGrahamShow) March 15, 2025
It's easy for social media to point fingers and harass players following games that don't end favorably. Instead of downgrading this young man, Tar Heel faithful should be lifting him up, being grateful for his production that helped North Carolina get to this point in the first place.
We're in the year 2025. It's time that social media trolls grow up and be better.
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