The Pac-12 Conference did not suspend California basketball coach Mike Montgomery for shoving star Bears basketball player Allen Crabbe in the middle of last Sunday’s game against USC. Instead, the conference simply reprimanded him.
“While emotions can run high in competitive environments, Pac-12 coaches are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that will reflect credit on their institutions and the conference,” Pac-12 Commissioner Larry Scott said in a statement on Monday. “Each Pac-12 coach must be aware thta they are an example to student-athletes and other students, and consistent with this influence and visibility, must meet a particularly high standard.”
Montgomery, usually known for a calm demeanor, expressed frustration that the key players for the Bears did not seem particularly engaged agains the Trojans. Teammates restrained Crabbe after he was shoved.
The coach initially brushed off the incident, but he was more apologetic a little removed from the game.
“I have great passion for this game and tonight, I let my emotions get away from me in the heat of the moment,” Montgomery said. “While my intent was to motivate our student-athletes, my behavior was inappropriate and I apologize for my actions.”
Crabbe tried to minimize the altercation as well.
“Everything’s fine,” Crabbe said. “It’s under the bridge. He’s my coach, no hard feelings. We’re just going to keep moving on.”
The punishment has not been released; however, Montgomery will not be suspended.
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