Indianapolis, IN—The Milwaukee Bucks, without Giannis Antetokounmpo, fell short against the Indiana Pacers in game 6 of the first round of the 2024 playoffs. However, the Bucks’ huge loss against the Pacers wasn’t the highlight (or in that case, the lowlight) of the night. Rather, it was Patrick Beverley and his usual tactics … again.
Fans and media called out Patrick Beverley for attacking Pacers fans
Just before the game ended, Beverley was already frustrated that Milwaukee would disappointingly end their 2023–2024 season without even reaching the second round. The Bucks survived game 5 without Antetokounmpo and Lillard but eventually went home after a blowout loss, 120-98, in game 6. Moments before the final buzzer, Beverley was making a ruckus on the sidelines as he was spotted having a heated interaction with a group of Pacers fans.
The 35-year-old veteran point guard threw the ball towards the stands not just once but twice. It was clear that Beverley was infuriated, as he was seen throwing it even harder the second he got the ball.
His teammates, staff, and security quickly intervened just as Beverley was exchanging words with another fan. Media and basketball fans are condemning Beverley’s actions. Charles Barkley, a basketball legend turned TV personality, called out Pat Bev and even mentioned that the Milwaukee Bucks point guard should be suspended. Others are also not very happy with how the three-time All-Defensive member acted after their defeat.
But, that’s not all
After the game, Beverley graced the reporters with a quick post-game interview inside the locker room. Reporters from different platforms, channels, and sporting news gathered around Beverley to hear his thoughts about their first-round exit. Surprisingly, he noticed ESPN’s Malinda Adams in his peripheral vision and turned to ask if she had already subscribed to the Pat Bev podcast, to which Adams politely said “No”.
However, Beverley does not want to be interviewed by Adams and even tells her to go away. “Can you move that mic, please? Or just get out the circle, please for me, please ma’am. If you’re not subscribed to my pod I’d appreciate that.” Adams then walked away from Pat.
The two consecutive incidents where Beverley showed his unacceptable behaviour towards the fan and the media quickly went viral. Brian Windhorst, Malika Andrews, Channing Frye, Marc J. Spears, and many more took notice of the point guard’s attitude and wanted an apology from him.
Malinda Adams is an ESPN executive reporter who has been around in the industry for many decades. Her peers, colleagues, and friends have all shared their thoughts on social media. A lot of posts on X and Facebook have nothing to say but positive things about Adams.
On the other hand, Patrick Beverley will always be the guy he is known for – his antics. On the court, Pat is an excellent defender who likes to pester his opponents with his lockdown defense. Almost everyone would agree that Beverley is a great teammate, but probably the worst enemy. You would love him to be on your team, but you’re going to regret going up against him, not because he’s a 40-point scorer, but because he’s going to get on your nerves every single time.
Regardless, his most recent reactions were uncalled for and it was indeed a bit childish and unprofessional. That being said, the NBA could likely suspend Beverley soon.
