Hoops

Greece vs Serbia brawl in Athens

Spot on AB4EVA.

Probably. But I am pessimistic about these things. Don't think there was ever a chance they would rub players out for long enough to effectively end Serbia and Greece's campaigns.

I would have thought that would have been the lightest penalty he should have received XY...

I would have rubbed Krstic out for at least all of the group stage games at the WC's.

FIBA has annoucned their official sanctions on 4 players involved in the brawl as follows:

- Serbian player Nenad Krstic is suspended with immediate effect for three games in main official FIBA competition which include the World Championships, Olympics and Continental Championships. The player is also fined a total of CHF 45,000.

- His teammate, Milos Teodosic, is also suspended with immediate effect for two games in main official FIBA competitions.

The Serbian Basketball federation will be fined a total of CHF 20,000.

- Greek players Antonis Fotsis and Sofoklis Schortsanitis are suspended with immediate effect for two games in main official FIBA competitions.

- The Hellenic Basketball Federation will be fined a total of CHF 20,000.

FIBA link: http://linky.com.au/svk68

Personally, whilst I think it is great that FIBA have taken a stance and enforced sanctions through suspension and fines, I think the sanctions are in effect far too soft.

These guys are supposed role models and their behaviour was totally unacceptable. Given the larger suspensions handed out for such behaviour in amateur ranks, just because these guys are professionals and representing their countries doesn't mean they should get lighter penalties - in fact it should be exactly the opposite.

I would like to know what others think on this topic.

FIBA is set to advise what if any sanctions are to be imposed on the players and/or teams before the WC's commence and are likely to be announced today.

Will really be interested to see whether FIBA stands up to be counted holds those involved accountable for their actions.

The outcome could really influence the prospects for both teams, and as a by product enhance Australia's chances due to the fact Serbia is in our group.

NBA.com: http://linky.com.au/899wd

From the article:

FIBA...said it will review the incident and announce possible sanctions by Wednesday.

"It's not killing me, but I can't say I'm not a bit nervous," Krstic said of a possible suspension. "What keeps me calm is that I no longer can do anything about it."

Another Serbian player who could face sanctions, Milos Teodosic, said he was sorry about the incident.

"Sincerely, I'm ashamed about the fight, and I apologize to the people in Greece and Serbia," said Teodosic, who plays for Greek team Olympiakos.

Serbia coach Dusan Ivkovic said if Krstic and Teodosic are suspended, "We won't be able to make it through the group stage."

FIBA have released a statement...and here is an excerpt:

"FIBA will take whatever steps are necessary against any individual player found to have been involved in this shocking incident. FIBA will not let this stand."

"FIBA, as the sport's world governing body, is now urgently reviewing last night's game and the circumstances leading to the violence."

"FIBA will not be commenting on the actions of any individual player ahead of that review being completed. However, FIBA wishes to make it clear that it will not hesitate to take the strongest possible action against any individual found to have brought the sport of basketball into disrepute."

FIBA Link: http://linky.com.au/j82bv

NBA.com link: http://linky.com.au/squtd

With so many players involved what are people's thoughts on the likelihood of FIBA suspending both teams from the World Championships?

I was reading the Real GM forum on this incident and they have additional video links of what transpired.

Apparently Krstic is also being held by the police...

I wonder if FIBA will take action or not?

If Krstic and a few others are rubbed out for many games (which they should be based on the video), then this could help Australia's cause!!!

I would assume FIBA would have to take a hardline stance given the severity of the player actions and the global media attention in the lead up to their marquee event less than 2 weeks away!

Was wondering if anyone knew what was happening with games this week, the games aren't up on Sporting Pulse?

Link to story for those who cannot acces the above link at work: http://linky.com.au/mv2p0

From the blog:

"A stunned crowd of 5,000 at the Athens Olympic Arena looked on as players from the two teams exchanged punches and kicks."

"Greek forward Antonis Fotsis had moved threateningly toward Serb guard Milos Teodosic after a hard foul, and Nenad Krstic of the Oklahoma City Thunder appeared to grab Fotsis by the throat."

"Krstic then threw a chair at Greek centre "Baby Shaq" Sofoklis Schortsanitis, who was pursuing him, and it hit Greek centre Yannis Bouroussis in the head."

By all accounts, the players continued to fight on their way down the exit tunnel. The eruption occurred not long after Serbian coach Dusan Ivkovic was ejected with two technical fouls for arguing with the referees.

Greece were leading 74-71 when the game was abandoned!