A visiting black player was taunted by four male fans shouting « basketball, basketball, basketball » during the Chicago Blackhawks’ game against the Washington Capitals.
A visiting black player was taunted by four male fans shouting « basketball, basketball, basketball » Saturday night during the Chicago Blackhawks’ game against the Washington Capitals.
Washington’s Devante Smith-Pelly was serving a major penalty for fighting Chicago’s Connor Murphy when the fans taunted him in the penalty box. An off-ice official sitting next to him notified building security, and the fans were ejected.
« We were made aware of an incident at tonight’s game involving a small group of attendees who made harmful comments directed at Washington Capitals player Devante Smith-Pelly, » the Blackhawks said in a statement. « The fans were immediately removed and we apologize to Smith-Pelly and the Washington Capitals organization. We are committed to providing an inclusive environment for everyone who attends out games and these actions will never be tolerated. »
Smith-Pelly wasn’t available for comment. Coach Barry Trotz said the player was « a little upset. »
« There’s absolutely no place in the game of hockey or our country for racism, » Trotz said. « I think it’s disgusting. »
The 25-year-old Smith-Pelly is in his first season with the Capitals. He also has played for Anaheim, Montreal and New Jersey.
