Bucks’ Beverley receives four-game suspension for throwing ball at fans and altercation with reporter

Milwaukee Bucks guard Patrick Beverley has been suspended by the NBA for four games without pay at the start of next season due to his actions during and after the final game of the Eastern Conference first-round playoff series against the Indiana Pacers.

The league stated that Beverley was being punished for throwing a basketball multiple times at spectators and for an inappropriate interaction with a reporter during media availability. This suspension comes after an altercation during the May 2 game that Indianapolis police are investigating involving an “NBA player and citizen.”

During the Game 6 loss that knocked the Bucks out of the playoffs, Beverley threw a ball at fans in the closing minutes, hitting a spectator in the head. He then threw the ball back at another fan who returned it to him. Beverley later addressed his behavior on his podcast, admitting that his actions were inexcusable and that he needed to do better.

After the game, Beverley refused to allow ESPN journalist Malinda Adams to ask him a question in the locker room, citing her lack of subscription to his podcast. He later apologized to Adams, stating that it was never his intention to disrespect her.

Bucks coach Doc Rivers expressed disappointment in Beverley’s behavior, stating that it was not reflective of the team’s values. Beverley, who was acquired from the Philadelphia 76ers earlier in the season, is now an unrestricted free agent.

The incident has sparked discussions about player-fan interactions and the emotional nature of the game, with Beverley acknowledging that he let his emotions get the better of him. As he faces the consequences of his actions, Beverley has vowed to improve his behavior moving forward.