Wizards' Isaiah Thomas Suspended 2 Games for Entering Stands to Confront Fan

Megan ArmstrongAnalyst IIIDecember 23, 2019

Washington Wizards' Isaiah Thomas talks with fans in the stands during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Philadelphia 76ers, Saturday, Dec. 21, 2019, in Philadelphia. Thomas was ejected from the game after leaving the court. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)

Matt Slocum/Associated Press

The NBA announced a two-game suspension for Washington Wizards guard Isaiah Thomas for entering the crowd during a verbal confrontation with fans Saturday night in Philadelphia.

Thomas was ejected in the fourth quarter of the Wizards' 125-108 loss to the Sixers at Wells Fargo Center.

The NBA released a lengthy statement regarding Thomas' suspension:

Fred Katz @FredKatz
Full statement from the NBA below: “NBA rules state that any player who deliberately enters the spectator stands during a game will be automatically ejected and subject to a fine and/or suspension.” https://t.co/rGuClOOuLE

The 30-year-old point guard made it known he does not agree with the league's decision to discipline him (NSFW language):

Isaiah Thomas @isaiahthomas
Bullshit!

A 76ers spokesperson confirmed earlier Sunday that the two fans involved in the verbal confrontation with Thomas have been banned for 12 months from the Wells Fargo Center.

Bleacher Report @BleacherReport
Philly fans get a Frosty if an opponent misses two free throws in the second half… https://t.co/rD4CuCyGdV

Thomas, donning a vintage Philly Allen Iverson jersey, addressed the incident with reporters in the locker room postgame (NSFW language):

Candace Buckner @CandaceDBuckner
Isaiah Thomas, putting on an Iverson jersey, address reporters about entering the stands. Thomas said a fan raised both middle fingers and screamed at him: “ F—-you, B—-!” Here’s Thomas detailing the incident, without censure. https://t.co/bPwSF5cVxE

Thomas was caught on video approaching the fans:

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Samuel J. Robinson @samuelrobinsonJ
Isaiah Thomas goes into the Philadelphia stands to confront a fan. He was ejected for this. (Via @TheAthletic) https://t.co/Z04Q0gWdXS

Prior to this season, the NBA implemented a zero-tolerance policy toward inappropriate fan behavior:

"After high-profile incidents involving Russell Westbrook, DeMarcus Cousins, Kyle Lowry and others last season—including ones involving racist taunts—zero tolerance for abusive or hateful behavior is now to become the NBA's policy going forward. The league is changing and toughening its code of conduct for fans, especially putting those in closest proximity to the players and the court on alert that anything over the line will lead to ejections and possibly more."

Thomas posted 20 points and three assists prior to his ejection.