During the fourth quarter of Game 6 between the Milwaukee Bucks and the Indiana Pacers, Bucks guard Patrick Beverley threw a basketball at fans seated behind the Bucks bench, amidst the Pacers’ series-clinching victory.
With 2:32 remaining in the game and the Pacers holding a commanding 114-94 lead, Beverley tossed a basketball into the stands, striking a fan in the head. Following a request for the ball’s return, Beverley forcefully threw it at another fan.
Subsequently, Beverley engaged in a verbal altercation with another fan, prompting security intervention as Bucks players, including Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, took notice of the incident.
Known for his aggressive style of play, Beverley, who had just been subbed out of the game, recorded six points on 3-for-11 shooting and five assists. Notably, he did not face any in-game penalties for his actions.
Typically, the NBA imposes a $25,000 fine on players for throwing objects into the stands, and it’s expected that the league will review this incident accordingly.
Beverley’s disruptive behavior extended beyond the court. During his post-game media session in the Bucks’ locker room, he interrupted a question to inquire if an ESPN producer subscribed to his podcast, “The Pat Bev Show,” aired on the Barstool Sports network.
Identified as Malinda Adams, a veteran field producer at ESPN since 2011, she responded negatively. Subsequently, Beverley, in a seemingly dismissive manner, requested for the microphone to be removed from his vicinity, lightly pushing it away.
Following the incident, several ESPN colleagues expressed support for Adams, emphasizing her professionalism and dedication. ESPN NBA insider Brian Windhorst called for Beverley to issue apologies for his actions.
Marty Smith, a reporter and host, echoed similar sentiments, describing Adams as one of the most respected and hardworking individuals in the media industry.
On the following day, Beverley reached out to Adams to apologize for the incident, as shared by Adams herself on social media.
The Pro Basketball Writers Association issued a statement:
“The PBWA is extremely disappointed with the unprofessional conduct of Milwaukee Bucks guard Patrick Beverley on Thursday night. Disrespecting and singling out a professional journalist who is merely trying to do her job is unacceptable.
“We are proud of the many strong working relationships our members have with players, coaches and executives throughout the league. And while heated moments happen and are expected in our business, this type of behavior is atypical and should not be a part of any workplace.
“We are pleased to hear that Beverley and the Bucks organization have apologized to ESPN’s Malinda Adams. As Adams herself wrote on social media, ‘Kindness and grace always win.’ “
