A fight that halted a girls basketball game in Indianapolis has prompted a Monday meeting with coaches and administrators from both schools and the Indiana High School Athletic Association.
The fight last Saturday between Pike and Ben Davis high schools appeared to involve both players and fans, although it is not clear what prompted the incident, the Indianapolis Star reported. Pike was leading Ben Davis 57-41 with 5 minutes left in the game, which was called after the fight.
Indianapolis TV station WTHR aired video of the incident that was posted on Twitter.
Ben Davis High School released the following statement that was published in multiple media reports:
“We are extremely disappointed that good sportsmanship was not shown by the players involved in today’s girls basketball game at Ben Davis High School. We are working closely with administrators at Pike High School and the IHSAA to determine exactly which players were involved in this incident.
“This behavior is not representative of our values, beliefs, or how we coach our student athletes. It is not reflective of the Ben Davis pride our students, alumni, and community share. And it certainly does not reflect the rich tradition and success of our girls basketball team. The Ben Davis players involved will face consequences at school, and we will comply with any consequences we receive from the IHSAA.”
Pike principal Troy Inman told the Star: “It’s unfortunate. You never want to see that happen. Sportsmanship should always be the top priority.”
Last year, the IHSAA suspended the Griffith and Hammond high school boys basketball teams for the season after a brawl broke out during a game. However, a civil court judge issued a temporary restraining order, which allowed both teams to play in the state tournament, the Star reported. Griffith advanced to the Class 3A state championship game.
