NBL stars charged but fan investigation continues amid claims of racist abuse

The NBL has charged Montrezl Harrell and Kendric Davis over a fiery altercation with fans, but the league is still investigating members of the public after the Adelaide 36ers claimed racial abuse was directed at a player.

The altercation, which spilled over to the sidelines during Adelaide’s clash with Melbourne United at John Cain Arena on Sunday, has resulted in Adelaide’s Harrell and Davis being referred directly to a tribunal that will sit on Friday at 1pm.

The fracas in the NBL game between Melbourne United and the Adelaide 36ers.Credit: Getty Images

The NBL has charged Harrell with two incidents of striking, engaging in a melee and inappropriate grabbing or handling of a spectator, while Davis has been charged with inappropriate grabbing or handling of a spectator.

Inappropriate grabbing or handling of a spectator can lead to a suspension of up to 10 games.

This masthead has confirmed that an allegation of racist language aimed at Davis formed part of Adelaide’s submission to the NBL integrity unit, which investigated the fight between players and fans during Sunday’s match.

There have also been reports that there was homophobic language directed at Adelaide’s Isaac Humphries, who came out as gay in 2022 while playing for United.

Melbourne United, the 36ers and the NBL declined to comment on the contents of the submission while the investigation was under way.

Four fans were evicted after engaging in an off-court incident with Adelaide players and staff.

NBL owner Larry Kestelman said spectators should not forget the privilege of being so close to the action.

“My take is very simple,” he said. “What happened on the court is just part of the game. What happened off the court – we’ve got proper, independent people looking at it – but what I will say is: I think people must not forget that it is an absolute privilege to be so close to athletes and to have an idea of [how it is] courtside.

“To have such access to players is almost like no other sport. Something people need to remember is that it is a privilege, not a given right. And for as long as I’m around, this is going to be a family sport.”

Sunday’s drama unfolded following a push-and-shove between Harrell and Melbourne’s Rob Loe after a foul call.

After Harrell pushed Loe, United’s Shea Ili joined the fray, shoving and verbally sparring with Harrell, prompting a melee between both teams.

Players returned to the benches for a video review of the scuffle, but tensions flared again minutes later when fans sitting courtside spoke with Harrell and other Adelaide players, including Davis.

A fan wearing a grey hoodie engaged in a physical altercation with Adelaide players and staff.

Umpires, security and Melbourne United staff quickly intervened and separated the players from the fans. Ili and Harrell were ejected from the game.

The NBL said the integrity department’s investigation of fan behaviour from the game remains ongoing.

Ili was charged with engaging in a melee, resulting in a $775 fine or a $585 fine with an early plea.

Melbourne assistant coach David Barlow has also been charged with leaving the bench during a fight, incurring the same penalty.

Under FIBA rules, only a head coach and/or first assistant coach are permitted to leave the team bench area during a fight, or during any situation which may lead to a fight, to assist the referees to maintain or to restore order.

Melbourne can accept or appeal the decisions.

In a statement, Melbourne United said the club “remains committed to creating the most inclusive and welcoming environment in Australian sport, while ensuring the safety of players, staff and fans”.

“The club does not condone or accept inappropriate fan behaviour at our games,” the statement said.

“The club will continue to support the investigation and will make no further comment until it is concluded.”

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