Liam McNeeley has been making headlines for his on-court performance, but on Sunday, it was his mother, Ashley Elsey, who stole the show. As the UConn Huskies battled top-seeded Florida in the second round of the 2025 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, social media couldn’t stop talking about McNeeley’s mom.
A former college basketball player herself, Elsey has been a visible supporter of her son throughout his journey, frequently posting about his achievements on Instagram.
During Sunday’s nationally televised matchup on CBS, cameras repeatedly cut to Elsey, sparking a viral reaction online. Fans couldn’t help but share their admiration, with some even joking that CBS should keep featuring her as long as McNeeley kept shooting.
Social Media Is Going Crazy Over Ashley Elsey
The internet’s reaction was immediate and overwhelming.
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“McNeeley’s mom would’ve been an added bonus if he would’ve came to KU,” one fan posted, referencing Kansas as a potential college choice.
Another chimed in, “Liam McNeeley‘s mom is an absolute babe”
Others simply acknowledged her rising social media status, with one fan declaring, “CBS cameraman is a huge fan of Liam McNeeley’s mom, she’s gotten more airtime than the Gators cheerleaders and the Florida coach”
Elsey has been a dedicated presence in McNeeley’s basketball career, showing her pride through public messages of support.
She took to Instagram after her son won Big East Freshman of the Year, writing, “Congratulations to Liam! I cannot even say how proud I am of who he is and how hard he works or how grateful I am for the circle of people who pour into him, pray for him and cheer him on. What a journey and more to come!! Let’s go Huskies!!!”
As UConn fights for a spot in the Sweet 16, Liam McNeeley’s performance on the court will be crucial. But for now, his mother has taken center stage, proving that the NCAA Tournament isn’t just about basketball, it’s about the stories, personalities, and unexpected viral moments that captivate fans across the country.
