Clippers star Griffin gets four games ban for punch
Blake Griffin #32 of the Los Angeles Clippers makes a slam dunk against Reggie Jackson #15 of the Oklahoma City Thunder in a past match. PHOTO | FILE |
What you need to know:
- Griffin underwent surgery last month to repair his hand, which was injured when he attacked a team equipment manager in a fight outside a Toronto restaurant.
- Reports have said Griffin attacked the Clippers employee after an argument in a restaurant turned violent.
LOS ANGELES
Los Angeles Clippers star Blake Griffin was suspended for four games and fined on Tuesday for his part in a punch-up that left him with a broken hand.
Griffin underwent surgery last month to repair his hand, which was injured when he attacked a team equipment manager in a fight outside a Toronto restaurant.
The five-time NBA All Star had already issued an apology for the incident.
Clippers owner Steve Ballmer and head coach Doc Rivers said in a statement Griffin would be suspended for four games while having his pay docked for five matches.
The money from the fine would be donated to charities which help disadvantaged youths in Los Angeles.
"We have made it clear that this conduct has no place in the Clippers organization," Ballmer and Rivers said in the statement.
"Blake is remorseful and has apologized for his actions. He is a valued member of our Clippers family and we support him as he rejoins the team... it is time to move forward which begins today and ultimately concludes when we have Blake back on the court."
Reports have said Griffin attacked the Clippers employee after an argument in a restaurant turned violent.
