Jeff Smith and Jeremy Saffore have been heckled more than all other players on the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga men’s basketball roster this year.
Opposing fan groups pick on Smith for the prescription goggles he wears during games, and Saffore is the center of verbal jabs for his 7-foot-1 stature.
They’ve been hearing the jeers for years. Saffore and Smith are closing in on the end of five-year careers with the Mocs. Their last regular-season home games are Monday and Wednesday nights against Furman and Wofford.
“Jeff and Jeremy are leaving here with at least two rings — not sure about a third,” coach John Shulman said. “They’ve been here through the good times and the bad times.”
While drawing flak in opposing arenas, the two have at times endeared themselves to the UTC fan base.