After instances of unruly behavior by fans towards players, the New York Knicks and Philadelphia 76ers took action by issuing apologies and bans for the individuals involved.
The NBA has emphasized that proper conduct among spectators will be strictly enforced following two separate incidents. Trae Young of the Atlanta Hawks was spat on by a Knicks fan, while Russell Westbrook of the Washington Wizards had popcorn thrown at him by a 76ers fan as he exited the court due to an injury.
An investigation by the Knicks confirmed the spitting incident, resulting in the fan responsible being banned indefinitely from Madison Square Garden. The team issued an apology to Trae Young and the Atlanta Hawks for the unfortunate behavior of the fan.
The 76ers identified the individual who threw popcorn at Westbrook as a season ticket holder and have since rescinded his tickets and barred him from future events at their home arena. However, the fans’ identities were not disclosed by either team.
Westbrook expressed his frustration, stating, “To be completely honest, this shit is getting out of hand. The amount of disrespect… It’s just out of pocket.” Wizards coach Scott Brooks believed the punishment was insufficient and advocated for a league-wide ban for the fan from Philadelphia.
