Dallas Mavericks release statement on incident involving Chris Paul's family
The Dallas Mavericks have released a statement regarding an incident that involved Dallas fans harassing Phoenix Suns point guard Chris Paul‘s family during Game 4 of the Western Conference Semifinals. The Mavericks tie the series at two, defeating the Suns 111-101 Sunday night.
“American Airlines Center and Dallas Mavericks security and executives have concluded the investigation into the incident involving the Paul family,” the statement read. “Two unruly fans attempted to give unwanted hugs and have conversations with members of the Paul family on the public concourse of Americans Airlines Center.
“AAC security responded immediately once notified by the family and the fans were swiftly ejected from the game. The fans involved in the incident will not be allowed to return to the arena until 2023.”
Suns head coach Monty Williams said the league should consider possible “special sections” in the stands for the families of home and visiting teams in the wake of this situation.
The Suns and Mavericks will resume their series with Game 5 Tuesday night at 10 p.m. ET live on TNT as both teams look to break the 2-2 series tie.
WATCH: Mavericks fan removed after alleged incident with Chris Paul’s family
Controversy reigned supreme at the American Airlines Center in Dallas during Game 4 between the Suns and the Mavericks. As Chris Paul attempted to lead Phoenix to victory over Dallas on Sunday, his attention was diverted as a Mavericks fan allegedly pushed and harassed the point guard’s family.
In a video posted to social media by Dallas Texas TV, it’s easy to see security escorting a Dallas fan out of the arena. Additionally, Paul’s visceral reaction is captured, as the Suns leader was heard yelling, “I’ll see you later.”
Afterward, ESPN confirmed the speculation with a report that Paul’s family faced harmful verbiage and actions from the aforementioned fan.
“Several family members of Phoenix Suns point guard Chris Paul in attendance for Game 4 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday were harassed and physically contacted by a fan in the crowd, sources told ESPN,” wrote Dave McMenamin of ESPN. “.. Paul’s mother, Robin, as well as his wife, Jada, and their two children watched the game in seats close behind the Suns’ bench at American Airlines Center, sources told ESPN.
“His mother had hands put on her and his wife was pushed, a source familiar with the situation told ESPN, and Paul’s kids were there to witness it.”