NBA Commissioner David Stern’s Statement

NBA News Release | Nov. 20, 2004
NBA Commissioner David Stern issued the following statement today:


Stern

“The events at last night’s game were shocking, repulsive and inexcusable --- a humiliation for everyone associated with the NBA. This demonstrates why our players must not enter the stands whatever the provocation or poisonous behavior of people attending the games. Our investigation is ongoing and I expect it to be completed by tomorrow evening.

"The NBA has taken the following actions, effective immediately:

  • " 1. Indiana players Ron Artest, Stephen Jackson and Jermaine O’Neal are suspended indefinitely, the length to be determined upon completion of the investigation.

  • " 2. Detroit player Ben Wallace is suspended indefinitely, the length to be determined upon completion of the investigation.

  • "3. Review of rules and procedures relating to altercations and security have been undertaken so that fans can continue to attend our games unthreatened by events such as the ones that occurred last night.”
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