USC Coach Michael Cooper apologizes for remark about UCLA

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Michael Cooper, former coach of the Sparks and former Lakers star, has gotten himself into a little trouble now that he is coaching the USC women’s team.

According to the Daily News’ Jill Painter, he apologized Tuesday for saying ‘[expletive] UCLA’ during his Sunday postgame news conference after the Trojans beat the Bruins 70-63.

A Pacific 10 Conference official told Painter that the conference is looking into the situation and that it is possible Cooper could be reprimanded.

Cooper sent his letter of apology to UCLA head coach Nikki Caldwell, who has declined comment on the matter. It remains unclear why Cooper let loose with such nastiness, because nothing controversial took place in the game.

‘There is no excuse for it,’ Cooper wrote in his apology, ‘and I realize it is outside the bounds of good sportsmanship.’

USC is 10-6 overall, 4-1 in the Pac-10. UCLA is also 10-6, but 3-2 in the Pac-10. The two teams will meet on Feb. 13 at Pauley Pavilion.

-- Debbie Goffa