Warriors’ Part-Owner Ejected From NBA Finals After Shoving Raptors’ Kyle Lowry

A minority owner of the Golden State Warriors who shoved Toronto Raptors guard Kyle Lowry has been barred from attending the remaining NBA Finals games and will not be permitted into other NBA games as an investigation into the incident continues.

The San Francisco Bay Area team issued a statement apologizing on behalf of Mark Stevens, a venture capitalist who’s been part of the team’s ownership since 2013, for his confrontation with Lowry during Game 3 of the finals Wednesday. 

“Mr. Stevens’ behavior last night did not reflect the high standards that we hope to exemplify as an organization,” a statement from the team read. “We’re extremely disappointed in his actions and, along with Mr. Stevens, offer our sincere apology to Kyle Lowry and the Toronto Raptors organization for this unfortunate misconduct. There is no place for such interaction between fans — or anyone — and players at an NBA game.”

The statement went on to confirm that Stevens will not be attending the remaining games. A source also told The San Francisco Chronicle’s Warriors reporter that the team is investigating the incident and that Stevens has been suspended indefinitely from any team activities.

Stevens got physical with Lowry early in the fourth quarter when the Raptors player pursued a loose ball and accidentally collided with fans on the sidelines. As Lowry tried to stand up, Stevens reached over and shoved him in the arm.

You can see footage of the incident below. 

After getting up, Lowry glared at Stevens and called over a referee, who didn’t take immediate action. But shortly after, the Warriors acted to eject Stevens from the game, team spokesman Raymond Ridder told the Chronicle

Lowry spoke out about the shove in a post-game interview with ESPN.

“The fans have a place; we love our fans,” he said. “But fans like that shouldn’t be allowed to be in there, because it’s not right. I can’t do nothing to protect myself.”

The NBA issued a statement denouncing Stevens’ actions and confirmed he will not be allowed into any NBA games while an investigation is ongoing.

“Golden State Warriors investor Mark Stevens last night was beyond unacceptable and has no place in our league,” the statement said. “As the review of this matter continues, Mr. Stevens will not be permitted to attend NBA games.”

The National Basketball Players Association also issued a statement saying they look forward to seeing the results of an investigation into the matter.

“The NBPA has previously expressed its support of a ‘zero-tolerance’ policy with respect to verbal and/or physical assaults perpetrated against Players,” NBPA executive director Michele Roberts said. “Stevens’ status as a member of the ownership group does not alter that view.”

Warriors coach Steve Kerr also said at a press conference Thursday that he will personally apologize to Lowry. 

This has been updated throughout.



Source link