The Washington Wizards didn’t waste much time banning the fan who tried to run onto the court during Monday’s Game 4 against the Philadelphia 76ers. The team announced through its ownership group, Monumental Sports & Entertainment, the fan has been banned from the Capital One Arena and charges are being pursued with DC’s Metropolitan Police Department.
The fan attempted to run on the court in the third quarter, but was tackled and apprehended by arena security.
Play on the court was halted as it became apparent what the fan was doing. This becomes the latest fan run-in during the NBA playoffs.
Wizards guard Russell Westbrook had popcorn dumped on him by a 76ers fan during Game 2 in Philadelphia. That fan was banned from the 76ers’ home arena.
On the same night, Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young was spit on by a New York Knicks fan at Madison Square Garden. Also that night, a Utah Jazz fan harassed Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant’s parents with racist comments. The Knicks and Jazz banned the fans from their home arenas.
Just Sunday a Boston Celtics fan threw a bottle at Brooklyn Nets guard Kyrie Irving. That fan has been banned and arrested.
Fortunately, the Wizards have moved quickly in banning the fan who tried to run on the court during Game 4. It’s unclear what charges will be brought against him by DC Police. But, it’s clear NBA teams and their respective local authorities have had enough and are doing its best to put an end to the disturbing trend.
