Bucks' Patrick Beverley Throws Ball at Pacers Fans After Playoff Elimination

In a bizarre incident during the Milwaukee Bucks' season-ending 120-98 loss to the Indiana Pacers in Game 6 of the NBA playoffs on Thursday, Bucks guard Patrick Beverley threw a basketball at Pacers fans in the crowd twice, hitting at least one fan in the head.

The incident occurred with 2:32 left in the game when Thanasis Antetokounmpo replaced Brook Lopez. As Lopez high-fived his teammates, Beverley threw the ball at a fan, hitting them in the side of the head. He then asked for the ball back from another fan and threw it back at them when he got it.

When asked about the incident after the game, Beverley refused to comment, saying "Nah, don't worry about that. Nothing." This was not the only unusual exchange Beverley had after the game. He also had an awkward interaction with ESPN's Malinda Adams, telling her she couldn't interview him because she didn't subscribe to his podcast, "The Pat Bev Podcast with Rone."

Beverley had a frustrating game, finishing with just six points on 3 of 11 shooting, going 0-for-3 from 3-point range in 40 minutes. The Bucks acquired the 34-year-old veteran guard from the Los Angeles Lakers in a four-team trade in February to bolster their backcourt depth and defense for the playoffs.

The NBA has taken a strong stance against player misconduct towards fans in the wake of the infamous "Malice at the Palace" brawl in 2004 when Indiana Pacers players fought with Detroit Pistons fans. In recent years, the league has not hesitated to issue hefty fines and suspensions for any inappropriate interactions between players and fans.

Beverley's actions mark a disappointing end to the Bucks' season as they fell short of their championship aspirations. The incident overshadowed strong performances from Bucks stars Giannis Antetokounmpo, who had 28 points and 19 rebounds, and Khris Middleton, who added 25 points. The NBA is likely to review the incident in the coming days and determine any necessary discipline for Beverley.

Key Takeaways

• Bucks' Patrick Beverley threw a basketball at Pacers fans twice, hitting one in the head.
• Incident occurred with 2:32 left in Game 6 of the NBA playoffs.
• Beverley refused to comment on the incident after the game.
• NBA may review the incident and issue discipline, including fines or suspensions.
• Bucks lost 120-98 to the Pacers, ending their season.