Two Mississippi high school basketball teams are facing serious penalties following an on-court fight.
The altercation broke out at a boys’ game between McComb and South Pike high schools on Tuesday, where players reportedly cleared the bench.
As a result of the fight, both basketball teams have been placed on probation for one season. The Mississippi High School Activities Association has also levied a $1,500 penalty on the two teams — $1,000 for the fight itself and $500 for players leaving the bench to join in.
Both McComb and South Pike will have to forfeit their next four games due to a multitude of players being suspended. State officials did not punish the coaches of the two teams, but the individual schools are at liberty to penalize the coaches.
“We appreciate the continued support and involvement of our parents and community as we work to uphold the integrity of our schools and ensure the well-being of our students throughout this school year,” McComb School District Superintendent Johnnie Vick stated.
The punishments resulted from an investigation into the fight and evidence submitted to the MHSAA by McComb School District officials.