A Memphis player has been charged with assault after an incident that took place between two women’s college basketball players in a handshake line Thursday night, ESPN reports, citing the Bowling Green State University (BGSU) Police Department.
The incident occurred after BGSU’s victory over Memphis, with BGSU conducting its own review of the situation as well, according to ESPN.
After the round of 16 game with the Falcons grabbing a 73-60 win over the Tigers, Bowling Green’s Elissa Brett was seemingly chirping at Memphis‘ Jamirah Shutes, which eventually halted the line. Shortly after, Shutes appeared to knock Brett right in the face with a punch, sending Brett falling toward the scorer’s table and then hitting the sideline floor.
“Violence is never acceptable and our priority remains the health, safety and support of our student-athlete, who is recovering and doing well,” said Bowling Green Athletics in a Friday statement, ESPN reported. “This is an active investigation in conjunction with the City of Bowling Green Prosecutor, and no further comment is available at this time.”
BGSU women’s basketball moving on to the final 8 of the WNIT after beating Memphis — but this will steal the headlines unfortunately.
Ugly, ugly scene in the handshake line. A Memphis player punched Elissa Brett. Just brutal. pic.twitter.com/2hptXYBEtj
— Jordan Strack (@JordanStrack) March 24, 2023
There’s no clarity yet on what exactly sparked up the incident, nor if anybody was seriously injured.
Bowling Green said Thursday night the situation was being handled by university police. (RELATED: Memphis’ Jamirah Shutes Punches BGSU’s Elissa Brett And Nearly Knocks Her Out (And Now Police Are Investigating)
“The incident that took place following tonight’s home WNIT game has been turned over to the BGSU Police Department,” the school said, according to ESPN. “Bowling Green State University Athletics does not make comments about active police investigations. Our priority is with the health, safety and support of our student-athletes.”