The Sacramento Kings are investigating allegations from a Bay Space hip-hop star that “racial bias” led to him being kicked out of his seat throughout a playoff recreation towards the Golden State Warriors.
The rapper E-40 stated in a press release that he was heckled all through the sport Saturday night time and addressed one heckler “in an assertive however well mannered method” earlier than safety guards got here and ordered him to go away the sector.
“Sadly, it was one more reminder that — regardless of my success and accolades as a musician and entrepreneur — racial bias stays prevalent,” he stated in a press release. “Safety noticed a disagreement between a Black man and a white girl and instantly assumed that I used to be at fault.”
The Kings stated they’re investigating the circumstances behind the ejection.
“The Sacramento Kings take these claims significantly and are investigating the information and circumstances relating to the state of affairs, as we do anytime an accusation like that is made,” the crew stated in a press release.
An individual aware of the state of affairs advised The Related Press that E-40, whose actual identify is Earl Stevens, was standing and blocking the view of followers behind him and was given a warning after a number of complaints. The particular person spoke to the AP on situation of anonymity as a result of particulars of the state of affairs weren’t launched publicly.
The particular person stated E-40 refused to conform and that safety officers for the Warriors and Kings escorted him from his seat.
A second particular person acquainted state of affairs, additionally talking on situation of anonymity, stated E-40 was by no means given a warning by safety about “extreme standing.” E-40 is a outstanding Warriors fan and was even a part of the delegation that visited the White Home earlier this season.
“It’s unlucky,” Warriors guard Klay Thompson stated. “I really like 40. He’s been our greatest supporter for years. I hope they proper that ship as a result of he deserves to be there by our bench. In my time figuring out him, he’s at all times been respectful. He’s at all times been thoughtful of these round him. Very bizarre to see, and I hope it’s resolved.”
E-40 is understood for his collaborations with different artists, together with on songs similar to “I Don’t (Expletive) With You” with Large Sean, “Snap Yo Fingers” with Lil Jon and Sean Paul of YoungBloodZ, and “U And Dat” with T-Ache and Kandi Woman.
