Warriors part owner Mark Stevens banned from NBA games after shoving Kyle Lowry
The NBA on Thursday said it has banned Golden State Warriors part owner Mark Stevens from attending games as it reviews a courtside incident in which he shoved Toronto Raptors star Kyle Lowry during Game 3 of the NBA Finals.
Stevens was ejected from the game after he shoved Lowry, who fell into a row of seats on the sideline while pursuing a loose ball. After the game, Lowry said the fan also cursed at him during the altercation.
“A team representative must be held to the highest possible standard and the conduct of Golden State Warriors investor Mark Stevens last night was beyond unacceptable and has no place in our league,” NBA spokesman Mike Bass said in a statement. “As the review of this matter continues, Mr. Stevens will not be permitted to attend NBA games.
NBA and Warriors officials said Stevens is banned from attending NBA games and Warriors team activities through the end of the 2019-20 season. Stevens was also fined $500,000.
The Golden State Warriors confirmed earlier Thursday that Stevens, who was referred to as a minority investor, was the fan who engaged in a courtside altercation with Toronto Raptors star Kyle Lowry during Game 3 of the NBA Finals. Warriors representatives said the team’s review of the matter is ongoing.
OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 05: Kyle Lowry #7 of the Toronto Raptors argues with Warriors minority investor Mark Stevens (blue shirt) after Lowry chased down a loose ball in the second half against the Golden State Warriors during Game Three of the 20
“Mr. Stevens’ behavior last night did not reflect the high standards that we hope to exemplify as an organization,” the Warriors said in a statement. “We’re extremely disappointed in his actions and, along with Mr. Stevens, offer our sincere apology to Kyle Lowry and the Toronto Raptors organization for this unfortunate misconduct. There is no place for such interaction between fans—or anyone—and players at an NBA game.”
Stevens bought a minority stake in the Warriors in 2013 after Vivek Ranadive was forced to divest his interest in the franchise due to his purchase of the Sacramento Kings. Stevens also joined the franchise’s executive board. The size of Stevens' stake in the franchise is unclear.
Stevens was ejected from the game after Lowry flagged his conduct to officials.
"There's no place for that,'' Lowry said. "He had no reason to touch me. He had no reason to reach over two seats and then say some vulgar language to me. There's no place for people like that in our league. Hopefully, he never comes back to an NBA game."
Axios was first to report Stevens’ involvement in the incident.
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Stevens currently serves as managing partner at his private equity firm, S-Cubed Capital. He was a partner at Sequoia Capital until 2012.
This story has been updated.