A group of fans at the United Center were ejected from the Chicago Blackhawks’ game Saturday for shouting racist taunts toward Washington Capitals forward Devante Smith-Pelly, according to ESPN’s Greg Wyshyski.
A Capitals spokesperson confirmed that fans were chanting “basketball, basketball, basketball” at Smith-Pelly before being removed by ushers. The winger, who is one of less than 30 black players in the NHL, could be seen becoming visibly upset during the game.
Washington head coach Barry Trotz called the acts “disgusting” while supporting his player.
“There is absolutely no place in the game of hockey or our country for racism.