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The Utah Jazz released a statement Tuesday afternoon, informing the public of their stance on the verbal altercation that occurred between a fan and Russell Westbrook during Monday’s game vs the Oklahoma City Thunder. Jazz fan Shane Keisel, has been banned for life from setting foot on the premise of Vivint SmartHome Arena, for all activities, not just Jazz games.
Statement from the Utah Jazz: pic.twitter.com/L3eYolvrpq
— Utah Jazz (@utahjazz) March 12, 2019
The Jazz called Keisel’s remarks “offensive and abusive” and stated there was “no place in our game for personal attacks or disrespect”.
Several videos surfaced of Westbrook yelling expletives at a fan during the game last night, but it wasn’t until after the game that both sides of the story were unveiled and told.
Russell Westbrook explains the verbal altercation he had with Jazz fans during tonight's game, saying fans told him “to get down on my knees like you used to.” (via @espn_macmahon) pic.twitter.com/aObvg6ZuPT
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) March 12, 2019
Shane Keisel, the Jazz fan who was involved in a verbal altercation with Russell Westbrook during the Jazz loss to the Thunder, explains his side of what happened. @KSL5TV @kslsports #nba pic.twitter.com/ScCSRttTCg
— Jeremiah Jensen (@JJSportsBeat) March 12, 2019
Some current and former Jazz players opened up and voiced their opinions on the situation, including franchise stars Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert.
We have to do better... we will do better! pic.twitter.com/heBO4z66TY
— Donovan Mitchell (@spidadmitchell) March 12, 2019
Rudy Gobert, minutes before the Jazz announced a lifetime ban for a fan who verbally abused Russell Westbrook: pic.twitter.com/yVJp7dl2CG
— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) March 12, 2019
I agree. Nothing but great things to say about Utah but i won’t act like it’s not possible either. https://t.co/MYiIbp1GaZ
— Trevor Booker (@35_Fitz) March 12, 2019
The lifetime ban is effectively immediately, and Kiesel can now face trespassing charges if found attending any events at Vivint Smart Home Arena. Russell Westbrook was fined $25,000 for his part in the altercation, and is yet to release any official statement since his comments following the game last night.