One spectator has received a lifetime ban and another fan has copped a 10-year ban from all NBL matches at all venues after the integrity unit completed its investigation into an ugly incident involving players and members of the crowd at a match earlier this month.
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The November 17 clash between Melbourne United and the Adelaide 36ers was overshadowed by the unsavoury scenes that involved some push and shove between players spilling over as courtside fans got involved.
As a result of the incident, 36ers star Montrezl Harrell was suspended for three games and fined $3685 after the single member tribunal upheld two charges of striking ($1550 fine each), a charge of engaging in a melee ($585 fine) and a charge of inappropriate grabbing or handling of a spectator.
Teammate Kendric Davis was also suspended for two matches for inappropriate grabbing or handling of a spectator.
While the players will be missing for Adelaide’s next few games, the punishment handed out to the fans involved in the clash is much more severe and sends a clear message to other spectators to not overstep their privilege.
“The NBL is, and always will be, a family-friendly sport and we will not tolerate any behaviour that goes against that,” NBL chief executive David Stevenson said.
“We hope this sends a clear message that sitting courtside at NBL games is a privilege. One of the great things about basketball is sitting up close to talented players, and we will always strive to protect and preserve that experience.
“We commend the swift action from club officials who intervened in an attempt to defuse the situation between Adelaide players and the fans.”
