NBA Issues Lifetime Bans to Two Spectators After Court Intrusion at Finals Opener
nba-lifetime-bans-fans-finals-game-1
DENVER — The NBA has permanently banned two spectators from all league-sanctioned events after one of them rushed onto the court during Game 1 of the NBA Finals in a failed attempt to take a selfie with players, the league announced Friday.
The on-court incident occurred late in the second quarter Thursday night at Ball Arena. According to the league, the fan left his seat, ran toward the playing surface with a phone in hand and was quickly subdued by arena security staff. He was escorted from the arena and later taken into custody by Denver police on counts of trespassing and disturbing the peace.
A second individual, identified by security while officers were removing the first intruder, allegedly interfered with the response. The league said that person was also ejected from the arena and has received the same lifetime ban.
The sanctions prohibit both spectators from attending games or events organized by the NBA, WNBA, G League, and NBA 2K League, as well as any other league-sponsored activities.
Names of the two individuals were not released. Kroenke Sports & Entertainment, which operates Ball Arena, declined further comment on the matter while noting that venue security procedures remain under review.
Source: ESPN
