Washington Wizards point guard Russell Westbrook had to be restrained by security after a fan poured popcorn over him during his side’s 120-95 defeat at the Philadelphia 76ers.
The incident happened as Westbrook left the court with an injured ankle.
“In these arenas, you have got to start protecting the players. We’ll see what the NBA does.“
Brad dropped 24p in the first half. Second half starts now!#WizSixers | @RealDealBeal23 pic.twitter.com/AEoRwjmnau
— Washington Wizards (@WashWizards) May 27, 2021
The defeat means the 76ers take a 2-0 lead against the Wizards in their Eastern Conference play-off.
The popcorn was thrown over Westbrook from above the players’ tunnel as he went off with 10 minutes left of the fourth quarter and the fan was later ejected.
“This was classless, unacceptable behaviour, and we’re not going to tolerate it at Wells Fargo Center,” said Philadelphia’s president of business operations Valerie Camillo.
“We’re proud to have the most passionate fans in the country… but this type of behaviour has no place in our arena.”
Neto 👀 Russ pic.twitter.com/1CCiXGQdxQ
— Washington Wizards (@WashWizards) May 26, 2021
Elsewhere, the New York Knicks secured their first NBA play-off win in eight years as they beat Atlanta Hawks 101-92 to level their Eastern Conference tie at 1-1.
The Utah Jazz also moved to 1-1 in their Western Conference play-off with the Memphis Grizzlies after a 141-129 victory.
