Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira
THE Bulawayo Basketball Association (BBA) has moved swiftly to take action following embarrassing scenes of violence that rocked the elite league last Saturday, scenes that were captured on video and have since gone viral.
Chaos erupted in the match between Imbizo Celtics and Giants Basketball Club, leaving match officials under attack and the integrity of the game badly bruised.
“I want to address the disturbing incident that occurred after Saturday’s game between Mbizo Celtics and Giants basketball club. The violent behavior towards our match officials and commissioners is unacceptable. Our secretary general is working tirelessly with involved parties to gather reports and we’ll take necessary actions according to our Unified ruled and Fiba regulations. I apologize to stakeholders, supporters and sponsors for the unacceptable display. We appreciate your patience as we handle this matter,” said Sinda Mono the BBA president. According to match events, with just 20 seconds left on the clock, Giants were trailing by two points when a foul was called.
A Giants player demanded the foul be ruled unsportsmanlike, but after consulting, referees ruled otherwise. He stepped up for two free throws and missed both. That is when tempers exploded. What followed shocked fans with scuffles between players and officials. With the footage spreading rapidly online, pressure has mounted on the BBA to act decisively — and all eyes are now on the association as it prepares to enforce discipline and restore order to the league. FIBA (International Basketball Federation) maintains a strict “zero-tolerance” policy regarding violent conduct on the court, classifying such actions as severe infractions that warrant immediate removal from the game and potential further disciplinary action.
Violent conduct is considered a violation of the spirit of sportsmanship and fair play.
