2/3/2023 

Eastern Illinois University Athletics statement concerning the incident that occurred during the first half of its men’s basketball game at Lindenwood University last night (Thursday, Feb. 2) 
 
“We are aware of the incident that occurred during the first half of our men’s basketball game at Lindenwood last night.  As an athletic department Eastern Illinois prides itself on good sportsmanship.  We do not condone this type of behavior by our men’s basketball team or any of our 500 student-athletes,” said athletic director Tom Michael.  “The issue has been addressed with both the player involved for EIU as well as the Ohio Valley Conference with any disciplinary action to be handled internally.  The player in question understands that this is not the type of behavior displayed by our student-athletes or our men’s basketball program and in the heat of the moment let emotions get the best of him.  This will be a learning moment moving forward and we apologize to anyone that may have been adversely impacted by the incident.”
 
EIU head coach Marty Simmons added, “I spoke with the young man this morning and he is extremely sorry for his actions at last night’s basketball game.  This is not in the character of this young man.  Even though he did not make physical contact with the fan, he understands the seriousness of this and regrets that his actions have negatively impacted the view of not only himself but the Eastern Illinois program.”

COURTESY EASTERN ILLINOIS ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS