Milwaukee Bucks center Thon Maker has been suspended for three FIBA games for his role in a fight during a game on July 2nd between Australia and the Philippines.
Australia's Thon Maker (plays for the Bucks) suspended three games in FIBA World Cup qualifiers for his role in brawl between Australia and Philippines in World Cup qualifier. Ten players and coach from Philippines, three from Australia received suspensions.
— Jeff Zillgitt (@JeffZillgitt) July 19, 2018
Tempers flared between the two teams and had the entire Philippine team coming off the bench, with Maker going a bit crazy throwing kicks and jumping on people. There were multiple punches thrown by several players, but Maker was the most famous name that got involved in the brawl.
A HUGE brawl broke out between the Philippines and Australia teams in a FIBA World Cup qualifier. pic.twitter.com/4jWWZAhVHb
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) July 2, 2018
According to Bleacher Report's Tim Daniels, the players and coaches weren't the only ones to receive some punishment. The referees that were officiating the games were taken out of the FIBA elite program which means they won't be allowed to participate in FIBA matches for at least a year. Each of the countries' FIBA federations was also handed fines for their respective team's role in the fight.
The basketball governing body released a statement about the suspensions.
“FIBA wishes to emphasize that it condemns any form of violence, both on and off the court. Respect, sportsmanship and professionalism are expected from players, coaches, officials and all other stakeholders at every game. Moreover, host countries must ensure the highest standards of organizational conditions are in place to guarantee the safety and well-being of players and other participants at all times.”
Maker has never shown this type of behavior in the NBA and if he did decide to show off his drop kicks, he would be suspended for more than three games.
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