Ref John Higgins Reportedly Received Death Threats After Kentucky's Loss vs. UNC

NCAA referee John Higgins met with law enforcement Tuesday after allegedly receiving death threats stemming from Kentucky's loss to North Carolina in the Elite Eight.

According to ESPN.com's Jeff Goodman and Dana O'Neil, Higgins received numerous calls at his home and office despite having an unlisted number.

UNC defeated Kentucky 75-73.

Per Goodman and O'Neil, Kentucky fans also wrote false messages on the Facebook page for Higgins' company.

Kentucky was whistled for 19 fouls in the game to UNC's 18, but the Tar Heels shot 26 free throws while the Wildcats shot 19.

Also, Kentucky stars De'Aaron Fox, Malik Monk and Derek Willis ended the game with four fouls apiece, while no North Carolina player had more than three.

Kentucky head coach John Calipari was critical of the officiating following the loss, saying: "You know, it's amazing that we were in that game where they practically fouled out my team. Amazing that we had a chance."

According to Goodman, Higgins was chosen to work the Final Four despite the controversy surrounding Kentucky's loss.