Albany residents, business owners, and politicians were quick to fire back on social media after a remark made about their city during the final Elite Eight game at MVP Arena.

”And by the way, good luck finding something to do in Albany," was the comment made by ESPN Announcer Rebecca Lobo in the final minutes of the game between Iowa and Louisiana State University, calling out the event's host city. 

Mayor Kathy Sheehan was one of hundreds to clap back on social media, pointing out the city's attractions and even offering Lobo a tour of Albany before she left.

“I saw people touring the Capitol, going to the State Museum, I’ve heard from some of the different hotels that their guests were just so excited," said Sheehan. 

Calling attention to restaurants, local bars, and various arts and performance venues, many people fought back against Lobo’s diss. In a statement provided to Spectrum News 1 by Dora Philip, owner of The Hollow Bar and Kitchen, she said her business hosted three live music shows throughout the tournament.

"Do you realize how incredibly insulting and tone deaf you come off to those that fought for their survival a few short years ago? The pandemic hit downtown the worst, out of the entire Capital Region. You don't have the first clue what we went through," Philip said in response to Lobo.

Tess Collins, who owns McGeary's Irish Pub, told Spectrum News 1 she was disappointed to see how much attention Lobo's comment received, saying it takes away from what she called an amazing week for the city. Even so, Collins said McGeary's was expecting larger crowds than they saw.

While there was plenty of pushback to Lobo's dig, some say she had a point.

“I chuckled out loud and was like 'you’re not wrong,'" said Albany resident Jasmine Shea.

Shea believes there are beautiful hidden gems in Albany, but that it’s not as bustling as it once was, and said the city could do a better job of promoting businesses.

Lobo took to social media to say “I’ve spent many fun-filled weekends in the Albany area over the years coaching my kids AAU teams. No shade intended towards the capital city, and the outstanding job they did hosting this regional."