Youth basketball assistant coach George Edwards III was arrested under charges of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon Saturday night after a courtside fight broke out between Edwards and referee Travis Williams at the Hive Gym in Oklahoma City.
According to bystander reports, Edwards was heard cussing at Williams and was given two technical fouls before landing a blow on Williams with his clipboard.
Hive director David Musselman told Oklahoma’s News 4, “The coach got the first whack in, and the ref got one in but the coach wanted more. Peace was resolved in 30 seconds, but it’s one of those things you can't unsee it. The kids can't unsee it.”
Police records show that a parent attempted to step in between the coach and referee and was struck in the process before event staff succeeded in breaking up the fight. Williams also received a citation for assault and battery.
“Everybody's been to a game where anger and tempers flare. It ignites when kids play. I don't know why,” said police spokesperson Megan Morgan.
Edwards has been banned from participating in programs and events at the Hive, and was terminated from his coaching position the same evening.
