5 fans banned for ‘unacceptable’ behavior toward players, families

Five fans have been banned indefinitely from NBA arenas for “completely unacceptable” behavior toward players and their families in separate incidents during the playoff games.

The New York Knicks have indefinitely banned a fan from Madison Square Garden one day after he spat on Atlanta Hawks superstar guard Trae Young during a playoff game on Wednesday night, May 26. 

The incident came on the same night that a fan in Philadelphia dumped popcorn on Washington Wizards superstar Russell Westbrook. That fan, too, has been banned from the arena.

At a game between Utah and Memphis, three Jazz fans were removed by Vivint Arena staff for heckling the family of Grizzlies standout Ja Morant, and they were also eventually banned indefinitely.

“This was completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated in our venue,” the Knicks said in a statement, while also apologizing to Young and the Hawks. “We have turned the information over to the appropriate authorities.”

The Sixers said they had revoked a fan’s season ticket with immediate effect and banned him from all events at the Wells Fargo Center after he poured popcorn on Westbrook.

The Wizards guard was limping to the locker room with an ankle injury in the fourth quarter and was showered with popcorn by a fan seated above the tunnel. 

A furious Westbrook had to be restrained by staff and security guards. (WATCH: Russell Westbrook restrained after popcorn thrown on his head)

“We apologize to Russell Westbrook and the Washington Wizards for being subjected to this type of unacceptable and disrespectful behavior,” the 76ers said. “There is no place for it in our sport or arena.”

The Jazz also escorted three fans out of the Vivint Arena and banned them indefinitely for heckling the family of young Grizzlies star Morant.

“The Utah Jazz have zero tolerance for offensive or disruptive behavior,” the Jazz said in a statement.

“An incident occurred last night involving a verbal altercation during Game 2. Arena security staff intervened, and the investigation resulted in the removal and banning of three Jazz fans indefinitely.”

Westbrook called for more protection for the players, saying there were numerous instances where fans in the stands felt they were “untouchable.”

“There has to be some penalties or something put in place where fans just can’t come to the games and do and say as they please,” he added.

The NBA urged fans to show respect for players and officials and said it will vigorously enforce an enhanced code of conduct to ensure a “safe and respectful environment for all involved.”

The National Basketball Players Association said true fans would honor and respect the dignity of players.

“No true fan would seek to harm them or violate their personal space,” the group said in a statement.

“Those who do have no place in our arenas.

“Respect our Players. Respect our Game.” – Rappler.com