Bryan Hodgson, head coach of No. 11 South Florida (USF), is about to make history in the NCAA Tournament — but this time, it’s personal. Ahead of USF’s first-round matchup against No. 6 Louisville, Hodgson opened up to TMZ Sports about coaching for someone who’s meant the world to him: his father, Larry Hodgson, who is currently battling dementia.
For the first time ever, Larry will watch his son coach a game in person. “Dad’s doing well,” Hodgson shared. “We have great conversations. He knows what’s going on … he’ll be well aware in the arena.”
But the coach admits the diagnosis has taken a toll beyond the emotional — physically and logistically, the travel has been challenging.
“It’s more starting to get physically taxing,” Hodgson said. “That’s the tough thing … the travel piece.”
A Tearful Moment Between Father and Son
When Hodgson told his dad he’d be in Buffalo for the tournament, it struck a deeply emotional chord.
“He was in tears,” Hodgson revealed. “He’s always enabled me to chase my dreams. He’s my why.”
It’s a moment that gives the storybook setting of Buffalo, NY extra weight. Hodgson, a Jamestown native, knows the city well from his days as an assistant at the University of Buffalo, and he expects a near-home-court atmosphere.
“We’re gonna have 400 people minimum,” Hodgson said. “A lot more already bought tickets … we’re gonna have people there that have our back.”
No Fear Against Louisville
Even with a tough opponent in Louisville, Hodgson isn’t shying away from the challenge. His message to bracket-fillers everywhere? Trust the grinders.
“We’ve got a bunch of forged men,” he said. “Guys that were overlooked … D2, JUCO … blue-collar guys.”
This is a team built on perseverance, grit, and underdog energy — qualities Hodgson hopes will translate into a March Madness shocker.
March Madness Meets Buffalo Food Tour
Hodgson isn’t just introducing his players to the NCAA Tournament; he’s giving them the full Buffalo experience. Ahead of tipoff, the USF squad is hitting iconic city spots — from Jim’s Steakout and Ted’s Hot Dogs to Tim Hortons runs and Duff’s wings. They’ll even have a sit-down at Giancarlo’s, with stops like Sinatra’s and Hutch’s on the itinerary.
It’s a mix of bonding, culture, and local flavor — a perfect primer for a team of blue-collar underdogs on the verge of a national stage.
A March Madness Moment Father and Son Will Never Forget
For Hodgson, this isn’t just a first-round game. It’s a chance to share a lifelong dream with his dad and create memories that extend far beyond the scoreboard. If USF pulls off the upset, it won’t just shock March Madness fans — it’ll be a moment etched in family history.
“He’s my why,” Hodgson said again, a reminder that for this team, the motivation runs deeper than wins and losses.
Stay tuned for exclusive updates from Bryan Hodgson and USF as they take on Louisville — and for the heartwarming behind-the-scenes moments that make March Madness unforgettable!
