NBL hand out life and 10 year ban to spectators involved in ugly melee, 36ers accept suspensions

Despite remaining unidentified, the NBL has handed out monster bans to the courtside fans involved in an ugly melee involving Adelaide players, while the 36ers accept Harrell, Davis sanctions. Full details inside.

One of the spectators involved in ugly courtside scenes with Adelaide 36ers players has been banned for life and another for 10 years after a nine-day investigation by the NBL integrity department.

And Adelaide has accepted respective three and two-match suspensions for import pair Montrezl Harrell and Kendric Davis for their roles in the verbal and physical stoushes with fans during the November 17 clash with Melbourne United.

While imposing the life ban, the league was unable to uncover the name of the mysterious fan — who covered his head with a hoodie in the moments after the incident — as investigators faced a cone of silence around his identity. For now, he has been banned by photograph at NBL locations and, if detected inside a stadium, he will be escorted from the venue. It’s understood the NBL will continue its attempts to uncover his identity.

The member involved still remains unidentified. Picture: Darrian Traynor/Getty Images

Long-time Melbourne United season-ticket holder Allen Ibrahim was banned from all NBL games for 10 years.

NBL chief executive David Stevenson hoped the penalties sent 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,” Stevenson said.

Stevenson commended the swift action of Melbourne United staffers, including marketing boss Tom van de Vusse and chief operations officer Mark Boyd, in attempting to defuse the situation.

The NBL and Melbourne United have worn strong criticism from fans throughout the long process of investigation.

Montrezl Harrell will sit out the next three games. Picture: Darrian Traynor/Getty Images

In a statement, United chief executive Nick Truelson said the club supported the NBL’s fan sanctions.

“I wanted to re-emphasise that Melbourne United does not condone or accept inappropriate fan behaviour at our games,” Truelson said.

“We are committed to maintaining the most inclusive and welcoming environment in Australian sport, whilst ensuring the safety of players, staff and fans.

“Having assisted the NBL throughout the course of its investigation, we support the findings and sanctions handed down to the spectators involved.”

Davis will return to action for the 36ers on Sunday, December 8, against Perth, while Harrell will follow on December 14 v New Zealand.