10
Mar
Code Sports
Calls to ban Ilawarra Hawks fan over Ian Clark taunt
Ian Clark of United looks on during the round 19 NBL match between Melbourne United and Tasmania Jackjumpers at John Cain Arena on February 01, 2025 in Melbourne, Australia. Photo: Graham Denholm/Getty Images
Highlights
A former NBL coach believes an Illawarra fan should be banned after taunting United's Ian Clark.
Former Illawarra coach Rob Beveridge has called for a Hawks fan to be banned after a racial taunt towards Melbourne United guard Ian Clark, as revealed by Crosscourt on Code Sports Basketball.
Matt Logue and Michael Randall report Clark called out a supporter for comments aimed at him during the fourth quarter of Saturday’s Game 1 win over the Hawks.
The clearly aggrieved American made a point of telling the fans that his remarks weren’t appreciated.
“Don’t call me boy – I ain’t your boy”, Clark could be heard saying in response to the comment that has racial connotations.
Beveridge, who coached Illawarra between 2015 and 2019, took to social media to express his disappointment in the fan’s actions.
“This type of behaviour doesn’t happen in the “normal” workplace, so why should us coaches and players (and family) be on the receiving end of this rubbish,” said Beveridge, who won an NBL championship with Perth in 2010.
“I wish that “fan” gets banned.
The fan was spoken to and warned by both stadium security and NBL integrity officer Shannon Bodley, who was in attendance.
For the full story, visit Code Sports Basketball.
