Milwaukee Bucks guard Patrick Beverley has been suspended by the NBA for four games without pay at the start of the next season. The suspension comes as a result of Beverley's actions during and after the final game of an Eastern Conference first-round playoff series against the Indiana Pacers.
The league announced that Beverley was being punished for forcefully throwing a basketball multiple times at spectators and engaging in an inappropriate interaction with a reporter during media availability.
The suspension was issued following an investigation by Indianapolis police into an altercation involving an NBA player and a citizen during the May 2 game. Beverley was seen throwing a ball at fans in the closing minutes of the game, hitting a spectator in the head. He then threw the ball back at another fan after it was returned to him.
On his podcast, Beverley acknowledged his actions, stating that regardless of the provocation, his behavior was inexcusable. He expressed regret for his actions and vowed to do better in the future.
Beverley also mentioned that the atmosphere in Indiana was generally positive, except for a few fans who crossed the line. He indicated that he would no longer bring a basketball onto the bench to avoid similar incidents in the future.
Following the game, Beverley refused to allow a journalist to ask him a question during a group interview, citing her lack of subscription to his podcast. He later apologized to the journalist and clarified that his intention was not to disrespect her.
Bucks coach Doc Rivers commented on Beverley's behavior, stating that it was not reflective of the team's values. Rivers acknowledged the emotional nature of the game but emphasized the need for players to maintain composure.
Beverley, who was acquired by the Bucks from the Philadelphia 76ers, was playing on a one-year deal and is set to become an unrestricted free agent in the offseason.
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