NBA Playoffs: Phoenix Suns Ask Fans To Stop Fighting At Games

PHOENIX, AZ — A troubling trend has arisen alongside the Phoenix Suns' string of wins over opponents in the NBA's postseason.

The issue stems from viral videos showing Suns fans fighting and/or taunting fans of opposing teams.

The trend has escalated, and the Suns issued an official statement condemning violence and taunting at games.

The Suns' official statement reads as follows:

“The Phoenix Suns are enjoying a deep run in the NBA postseason, and while the intensity on the court continues to heat up, we still expect Suns fans to keep their cool off the court. We will not tolerate the violence that erupted following Sunday’s game at Phoenix Suns Arena. We consider Suns fans to be the best in the world. Fighting or taunting to incite violence is not reflective of our organization or how fans from across the Valley should be represented. Let’s work together to provide a model fan experience that is fun, enthusiastic and respectful.”

The first fight occurred during Game 4 of the Suns Western Conference semifinal series victory over the Denver Nuggets. A Suns fan got into an altercation with several Nuggets fans, throwing multiple punches, before telling the other man that the Suns would win the series in four games.

After Sunday's 120-114 victory over the L.A. Clippers in Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals on Sunday, some Suns fans were captured on camera fighting a pair of Clippers fans.

The Suns next take to the court at 6 p.m. Tuesday for Game 2 of the team's series against the Clippers, with the contest being held at downtown's Phoenix Suns Arena.