A heated college basketball game took an ugly turn when a team’s leading scorer was thrown out after appearing to spit at a fan sitting courtside.
Erik Pratt, Stony Brook’s top scorer, was ejected late in Thursday night’s road matchup against Monmouth in New Jersey after cameras caught the tense exchange.
With about 2:30 left in the game and Stony Brook trailing 77-63, Pratt was seen walking along the baseline looking visibly frustrated. A Monmouth fan seated courtside appeared to shout something at him. Pratt responded verbally — and then spit in the fan’s direction.
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“Ew,” one announcer said as the broadcast replayed the moment.
Officials quickly huddled to review what happened before ejecting the graduate student from Lake Worth, Florida. Stony Brook went on to lose the game 82-69.
Before his early exit, Pratt had put up 14 points and eight assists in 33 minutes of play. He also committed five turnovers in what turned into a chaotic night.
After the game, Pratt addressed the incident on Instagram, taking responsibility for his actions.
“First, to Monmouth University and the fans specifically. Second, to Stony Brook University. I take full responsibility for my lapse in judgement,” he wrote. “It was a let down to my teammates, my coaches & an improper representation of Stony Brook University. That isn’t who I am or how I am to represent myself, my family, or my school. I apologize.”
It’s not yet clear whether Pratt will face additional discipline or suspension, but the timing could be costly. With the conference tournament approaching, Stony Brook may need to win it outright to secure a spot in the NCAA tournament.
For now, the viral moment — not the box score — is what has fans talking.