Following a heated matchup between Texas A&M University-Commerce and the University of the Incarnate Word, a post-game brawl erupted, resulting in the suspension of eight players. The altercation took place during the handshake line after Texas A&M-Commerce secured a 76-72 overtime victory over Incarnate Word.
The brawl lasted approximately two minutes, with players exchanging blows while coaches intervened to diffuse the situation. The chaotic scene spilled onto the court, causing concern among spectators, including a young girl who was reportedly injured, and a student manager who left the court with facial injuries.
In a joint statement issued after the incident, both schools condemned the violence, emphasizing that such behavior has no place in college sports. The Southland Conference, where the two teams compete, responded swiftly by imposing multi-game suspensions on the involved players.
Three players from Texas A&M-Commerce, Jerome Brewer Jr., Ant Abraham, and Kwo Agwa, received three-game suspensions, while Prince Davies was suspended for one game. Incarnate Word's Elijah Davis was also handed a three-game suspension, with Alex Anderson, Gabe Beny Til, and Marcus Glover each receiving a one-game suspension.
Southland Conference commissioner Chris Grant underscored the importance of sportsmanship and condemned the unsportsmanlike conduct displayed during the game. Grant expressed gratitude to the athletics directors of both schools for their cooperation in addressing the issue promptly.
The cause of the altercation remains unclear, although tensions were high throughout the game, which required overtime to determine the winner. The incident marred an otherwise competitive matchup that was broadcast nationally on the ESPN+ app.
The aftermath of the brawl serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding standards of sportsmanship and respectful competition in collegiate athletics. The Southland Conference's firm stance against unsportsmanlike behavior underscores the commitment to maintaining a positive and safe environment for all participants and spectators.
