Jahlil Okafor (Photo : Getty Images Sport)
The Philadelphia 76ers rookie and 3rd overall pick in the draft, Jahlil Okafor was involved in an altercation in Boston.
According to TMZ, the fight erupted while Okafor and the some friends went out on the town after their loss to the Boston Celtics. While they were in front of Storyville night club, one man from a different group shouted "The 76ers suck!"
TMZ recalled the incident. "Okafor was screaming at the other man, "We got money you broke ass n**ga."
A scuffle ensues -- people tried to hold Okafor back -- but then he escapes and swings wildly at another man ... connecting ... and sending him flying to the ground.
In the melee, Okafor tumbles to the ground and a man in a green jacket tries to punch the 6'11" superstar in the back of the head." Watch the video here.
Jeff Goodman of ESPN said a source confirmed to him how the fight started.
"Apparently, they said: 'The 76ers suck and you guys are all losers. You'll never win a game,' " claimed Goodman's source who was described as "close to Okafor.
"I was around the corner when it happened. I saw him a minute after he knocked the dude out," the source said. "I think the guy was just talking s---. Saying the Sixers suck."
The Sixers have issued a statement:
"We are aware of the report and we are currently working to gather additional information," the team said. "Until that time, we will have no further comment."
Based on past incidents, the NBA usually hands out sanctions or suspensions on players involved in violent incidents. There were clear acts of aggression on Okafor's part, but the NBA needs will, and should investigate the extent of provocation.
Okafor has been the Sixers best player and if they would lose him for a number of games, their chances of winning would greatly diminish.
