WICHITA, Kan. — The Basketball Tournament has suspended AfterShocks guard Marcus Keene indefinitely following a postgame altercation after Monday night’s quarterfinal against JHX Hoops.
“After reviewing the postgame actions following last night’s game between JHX Hoops and AfterShocks, TBT decided this morning to suspend Marcus Keene from TBT events indefinitely,” TBT said in a statement. “While TBT is all about passionate competition, we expect our players to treat their fellow competitors with professionalism and integrity at all times. We look forward to concluding this year’s tournament with intense, high-stakes games that are enjoyable for fans and participants alike.”
Two altercations marred JHX Hoops’ 64-59 victory over the defending champion AfterShocks, the Wichita State alumni team.
The first occurred late in the second quarter after former Wichita State player Rashard Kelly and former Kansas guard Mario Chalmers became involved in a scuffle under the basket.
Kelly and Chalmers were ejected, along with AfterShocks players James Woodard, Morris Udeze, Chaunce Jenkins and Q.J. Peterson and JHX players Jamari Traylor, Kevin Young and Tra’Deon Hollins. The additional players were ejected for leaving the bench during the incident.
Another altercation broke out following the final buzzer and extended into the seating area.
The AfterShocks issued an apology Tuesday.
“We are deeply regretful for the incident that occurred following (Monday) night’s game,” the team said in a statement. “Since we launched the AfterShocks in 2019, we’ve taken great pride in the way we represent our community through a high standard of professionalism, sportsmanship and respect for everyone involved.
“The events that followed last night’s game did not reflect that standard. We sincerely apologize to our fans, TBT and the JHX Hoops organization. We’d like to thank our fans for the continued support, and are eager to move forward in a manner that reflects the values of the AfterShocks organization.”
Wichita State also issued a statement Tuesday condemning the violence and noting that TBT managed the event.
“We are deeply disturbed by the incident at the basketball game,” the university said. “Violence does not belong in our community or at sporting events. This event was hosted and managed by The Basketball Tournament. Security was provided for the event, including both private security personnel and university police.
“Because the incident remains under review, the university is unable to provide additional details. Questions regarding event operations and event safety protocols should be directed to The Basketball Tournament.”