ACC Fines UNC $50K After Fans Storm Court Post-Duke Victory
The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) has imposed a $50,000 fine on the University of North Carolina (UNC). This penalty follows a tumultuous event where fans stormed the court after a thrilling game against the Duke Blue Devils. The clash happened on a Saturday night, with UNC securing a 71-68 victory.
Background on the Incident
The incident occurred at the Dean Smith Center, highlighting the intense rivalry between the two schools. After UNC’s Seth Trimble scored a crucial three-pointer with only 0.4 seconds left, excitement erupted among the fans. They rushed the court twice during the game, leading to a disruption that required officials to clear the area.
ACC’s Rationale for the Fine
The ACC’s decision stems from violations of their event policy. This policy aims to ensure the safety of student-athletes, coaches, officials, and fans during games. The implementation of fines for storming the court began this season, influenced by a previous incident at Wake Forest that resulted in injuries, including one to Duke player Kyle Filipowski.
Details of the Fine
- Amount: $50,000
- Occurrence: After UNC’s win over Duke on Saturday night
- Accusation: Violation of event policy
University’s Response
In light of the fine, UNC officials acknowledged the penalty but maintained that they took proper measures to ensure the safety of all involved. They stated they effectively managed the situation to secure the exit of Duke’s players and staff and consider the matter resolved. Furthermore, UNC is committed to reviewing its procedures to enhance safety during such events.
Comments from Duke’s Head Coach
Duke’s coach, Jon Scheyer, voiced concerns regarding the safety of his staff and family members during the post-game chaos. He described incidents where staff members were punched and addressed the fear his family experienced during the court storming. “That’s not what this game is about,” Scheyer stated, emphasizing the need for a safer environment.
Future Implications of ACC Policies
The ACC’s policy on court storming includes escalating fines. Schools may incur fines of $50,000, $100,000, or $200,000 for each offense within a two-year period across football and basketball. All fines collected are directed to the Weaver-James-Corrigan-Swofford Postgraduate Scholarship Fund to aid student-athletes seeking graduate education.
