Rider basketball game ends with ghost handshakes and real suspension

The game on Tuesday night between the Rider Broncs and their Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference rival Siena Saints looked to be like any other conference battle before an ending that drew national attention and disciplinary action.

With just over two minutes to go, Norville Carey was called for a foul under the basket which led to words being exchanged as well as physical contact between players on both teams. Eventually, order was restored with Siena's Marquis Wright and Rider's Anthony Durham being ejected from the remainder of the contest. Technical fouls were also assessed to both teams and the game ended with Siena winning 78-68.

After the game, Rider Coach Kevin Baggett pulled his team from the court before the traditional handshake. On the other bench, Saint's Coach Jimmy Pastos could be seen pretending to shake hands with Baggett and the no-longer-there Bronc squad.

On Wednesday, MAAC Commissioner Richard Ensor announced that Durham and Wright had both been suspended for one game. The coaches were also reprimanded by the conference and were required to sign the MAAC Sportsmanship Statement.

Rider Athletic Director Don Harnum said in a statement, "Rider supports the decision of the league office. We will continue to work with our student-athletes and coaches to foster the highest levels of sportsmanship."

Contact reporter Adam Hochron at 609-359-5326 or Adam.Hochron@townsquaremedia.com