The Leicester Riders have released a statement after their BBL clash with Plymouth City Patriots was marred by an ugly incident.
The Riders prevailed 86-71 in the first leg of the quarter-final play-off. They have already finished top of the league table having won 25 of their 27 matches.
But the post-match talk all centred around a flashpoint in the third quarter, when Leicester coach Rob Paternostro was attacked by a spectator. Following the match, a club spokesman confirmed that police were investigating.
"In the third quarter of tonight’s game our Head Coach Rob Paternostro was attacked by a spectator at Plymouth Pavilions," read the statement. "We would like to thank the medical staff who attended to Rob for their swift response.
"Both Leicester Riders and Plymouth City Patriots strongly condemn the actions of the spectator. There is no place for this behaviour in our game. The matter is currently being investigated by the Police."
Paternostro, 49, has become a legendary figure at the club since taking over in 2008. He's since led them to six BBL Championship wins, the most recent of which came in 2022, and gone to triumph in the play-offs on four of those occasions.
He's also overseen the side winning three BBL Trophy and three BBL Cup titles, the last of which came in January. He has also been named the BBL Coach of the Year six times.
And following Friday's incident, the 49-year-old American received plenty of support on Twitter. @JenniferConroy6 wrote: "Absolutely no place in basketball for this kind of behaviour. Wishing coach a speedy recovery."
@basketballspice added: "Incredulous for something like this to happen at a basketball game. Hope Rob is ok," while @TigerfanLea posted: "Wishing Rob a speedy recovery from any injury sustained. Appalling behaviour."
It marred what was otherwise a good night for the club. Patrick Whelan led the team with 19 points and seven rebounds in his first BBL play-off game, excelling in a crucial third quarter.
Reigning MVP Geno Crandall also put up big numbers in the win, scoring 18 points. His defensive effort was also important, as he added another four steals to his season tally.
The Riders will have the chance to secure their progress in front of their home crowd on Sunday, when they host the second leg. A win on aggregate score would see them advance to the semi-finals and keep their hopes of a domestic treble alive.
