DALASUS – Several members of the family of Phoenix Suns defender Chris Paul, who attended 4 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday, were harassed and physically contacted by a fan in the crowd, sources told ESPN.
Paul drew attention to the alarming incident on the occasion of Mother’s Day on social media after the victory of the Mavs with 111-101, which tied the series at 2-2.
He tweeted: “I want to fine the players for saying things to the fans, but the fans can lend a hand to our families … f — that !!
Paul’s mother, Robin, and his wife, Jada, and their two children watched the match in seats near the Suns’ bench at the American Airlines Center, sources told ESPN. His mother laid her hands on her and his wife was pushed, a source familiar with the situation told ESPN, and Paul’s children were there to witness it.
Paul’s wife was also followed along the path when she left her place, a separate source said.
The Mavericks were aware of the incident and issued a statement that read in part: “This was unacceptable behavior and will not be tolerated. The Mavericks, along with the American Airlines Center, quickly removed the fan from today’s game.”
Paul, who fouled out of the game with 8 minutes, 58 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter after being limited to five points in 23 minutes, consulted with security officials located near the Suns bench to express concern about to which his family is subjected.
“They felt very insecure,” a source familiar with the situation told ESPN.
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