The Arkansas Activities Association, in conjunction with Barton and England High Schools, has concluded an initial investigation into the altercation that occurred at the conclusion of the 2A Boys State Tournament contest.
Following an extensive review of available video and evidence, five members of the Barton High School basketball team have been ejected for unsportsmanlike conduct. Under AAA regulations, these student-athletes are ineligible to compete in the upcoming 2A Boys State Championship game.
Seven members of the England basketball team have been ejected.
“What happened at the end of the contest between Barton and England was unacceptable and does not reflect the values of education-based athletics,” said AAA Executive Director Lance Taylor. “We have gone through every second of the incident, from multiple angles, to identify any student-athlete, school personnel, and community members involved in the altercation. Any team member who engaged in an unsportsmanlike act, or instigated an unsportsmanlike act, has been ejected.
The AAA remains committed to maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all participants and spectators. The investigation remains open, and the AAA reserves the right to issue further disciplinary actions should new evidence become available.
“There have been plenty of comments made about the negative, but there were numerous individuals from both Barton and England who tried to do the right thing,” Taylor said.
The AAA supports the Grant County Sheriff’s Office’s decision to open a criminal investigation and intends to provide its full cooperation.