Big 12 reprimands Kansas State after court-storming

The Big 12 Conference issued a public reprimand to Kansas State for its handling of the court-storming that followed a 70-63 victory over No. 8 Kansas on Monday at Bramlage Coliseum.

As students flooded the floor in celebration, security personnel were unable to keep the crowd away from players and coaches as they attempted to shake hands and leave the court. K-State police cited one student for disorderly conduct after he appeared to deliberately collide with KU player Jamari Traylor while sprinting onto the court.

Big 12 commissioner Bob Bowslby said the league would look into prohibiting spectators from entering the playing field, which the Southeastern Conference punishes with fines for schools up to $50,000. There are currently no rules against it in the Big 12.

“I am grateful for the immediate and professional engagement of the leadership at Kansas State University regarding the game management issues experienced after the game,” Bowlsby said in a release. “Having stated that, the interaction of spectators with players, coaches, and staff members was inappropriate and unacceptable.”

“The Kansas State Department of Athletics has a written event management policy which was unsuccessful in ensuring the safety and security of both game participants and spectators. Revisions to policies and procedures must guarantee that no future incidents occur.”

Changes appear on the way.

“The Big 12 Conference does not currently have a policy prohibiting spectators entering playing areas of our contests,” Bowlsby said. “We also do not have policies governing foul language and inappropriate chants within our venues. I have asked that discussions on both of these topics be placed on the agendas for the next meetings of the ADs and of the CEOs.

“In the meantime, all conference institutions are reminded to reassess game management procedures in order to effectively and uniformly ensure the integrity of our contests, the security of the student-athletes and coaches, and the safety of the spectators. Maintenance of a sportslike environment around our contests is among the most important responsibilities shared by our members and enforced by the conference office.

“The events following the KU vs. K-State game should be a call to action for all of us.”

This story was originally published February 25, 2015 at 8:23 PM with the headline "Big 12 reprimands Kansas State after court-storming."