Two Mavericks fans have been banned from the American Airlines Center for more than a year and a half for their attempts to give “unwanted hugs” to members of Chris Paul’s family during Game 4 of the Mav and Pheonix Suns’ playoff series.
“Two unruly fans attempted to give unwanted hugs and have conversations with members of the Paul family on the public concourse of the American Airlines Center,” the Mavericks said in a statement.
“AAC security responded immediately once notified by the family, and the fans were swiftly ejected from the game. The fans involved in the incident will not be allowed to return to the arena until 2023.”
“Wanna find players for shouting something to the fans, but the fans can put their hands on our families….f–k that!!” Paul tweeted after the incident.
On Monday night, TNT analyst Kenny Smith elaborated on the situation saying he spoke with Paul’s mother who told him that an inebriated fan continually poked her while saying “Happy Mothers Day” despite her telling him to stop.
According to reports, there has been an increase in incidences of disruptive supporters since the return of fans to stadiums and arenas amid the pandemic.
