EAST LANSING, Mich. – Former Michigan State and NBA player Paul Davis apologized Tuesday for a verbal altercation with an official during the 12th-ranked Spartans’ 80-51 victory over USC on Monday at the Breslin Center. The incident led to Davis being escorted from his seat near the court.
Former Spartan Paul Davis Apologizes for Conduct at Basketball game
The former michigan State star expressed remorse for his actions, acknowledging a lapse in judgment and offering apologies to those affected.
Davis addressed reporters Tuesday,less than 24 hours after the incident,stating,”I’m up here to take accountability – to own it.” He confirmed he had apologized to the official,Jeffrey Anderson,during a phone call,describing it as “a short conversation,but an amazing conversation. Amazing guy.”
Acknowledging a Distraction
The 41-year-old Davis expressed regret for potentially distracting the Michigan State players during their successful start to the season and for diminishing the experience for the USC team. He also extended his apologies to Michigan State fans,the university,and families in attendance and watching at home for failing to serve as a positive role model.
Davis initiated contact with coach Tom Izzo several hours after the game, seeking an possibility to publicly address his mistake. Izzo acknowledged the situation, noting, “It kind of went global.”
The incident occurred with approximately six minutes remaining in the game, as Michigan State held a commanding 67-46 lead over USC.Television cameras captured Izzo confronting Davis, shouting, “What are you doing?”
Izzo, who coached Davis during his time as a Spartan two decades ago, emphasized his fondness for Davis, stating, “He’s always calling and doing things, but what he saeid, he should never say in the world. That ticked me off.”
Davis played for Michigan State from 2002 to 2006, serving as a three-year starter. He averaged 13.2 points and 7 rebounds throughout his collegiate career, culminating in averages of 17.5 points and 9.1 rebounds during his senior season.
“You’re a basketball player when you’re here, and you’re an ambassador when you leave,” Davis said, reflecting on the responsibilities that come with representing the program.
Following his collegiate career,Davis played in the NBA with the LA Clippers from 2006 to 2009 and the Washington Wizards in the 2009-10 season.
