NBL hands out lifetime ban to spectator

An NBL spectator who got involved in an on-court scuffle during the 17th November clash between Melbourne United and the Adelaide 36ers has received a lifetime ban from all NBL matches, while another fan has been barred from attending games for 10 years.

Announcing on Tuesday that its Integrity Department had completed its investigation into the spectator conduct during the game, NBL Chief Executive, David Stevenson advised “the NBL is, and always will be, a family-friendly sport and we will not tolerate any behaviour that goes against that.

“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.

The 17th November clash between Melbourne United and the Adelaide 36ers at Melbourne’s John Cain Arena was overshadowed by the unsavoury scenes that involved some pushing and shoving 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.

Stevenson added “we commend the swift action from club officials who intervened in an attempt to defuse the situation between Adelaide players and the fans.”

After the incident, ESPN reported that four spectators were ejected from the venue.

Image: NBL action at John Cain Arena. Used for illustrative purposes only. Credit: Melbourne & Olympic Parks.