The University of New Mexico is investigating an incident involving two members of the men’s basketball team in which one player allegedly punched another player over a chair during a flight last month, according to multiple reports.
A walk-on player on the Lobos basketball team was reportedly hit in the shoulder by a scholarship player as the team traveled to Palm Springs for the Acrisure Classic just before Thanksgiving. KOB4 reported after a conversation with the family of the suspected victim.
The New Mexico Lobos logo is displayed on the floor before a college basketball game against the Nevada Wolf Pack at The Pit on January 28, 2024 in Albuquerque, New Mexico. (Mitchell Layton/Getty Images)
Neither player was mentioned.
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According to the family, the argument stemmed from a disagreement about where the walk-on player was on the plane. They also claimed that the player suffered a blow to the same shoulder that was already injured, leaving him in a sling, and that he was later treated at an Albuquerque hospital when the team returned.
The family also claimed that a similar incident involving the same player took place at the hotel the same day.
The alleged victim reportedly told coaching staff about the incident but claimed nothing was done.
New Mexico Lobos head coach Richard Pitino watches against the Clemson Tigers during the first half of the NCAA Tournament First Round at FedExForum on March 22, 2024. (Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports)
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An attorney representing the walk-on player told KRQE that the scholarship player was allowed to play two matches after the incident occurred.
University representatives told Fox News Digital in a statement that they are investigating the incident.
“The University of New Mexico takes the safety and well-being of all of our students very seriously. “We are aware of an alleged incident involving members of our men’s basketball team and are carefully reviewing all facts,” the statement said.
The New Mexico Lobos logo is shown on the floor before a college basketball game against the Nevada Wolf Pack at The Pit on January 28, 2024 in Albuquerque, New Mexico. (Mitchell Layton/Getty Images)
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“We are following all applicable protocols and procedures in addressing this situation and are committed to addressing any misconduct appropriately. Due to federal student privacy laws, specifically the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), we are unable to release specific details or comment further. individual student affairs.”
Head coach Richard Pitino declined to elaborate on details at a press conference on Monday.
“There’s not much I can talk about. We handle any disciplinary matters internally, but beyond that I can’t say much specifically.”
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