The Big West and UC Davis have released statements following a fight late in the second half in Aggies game on Saturday vs UC Santa Barbara. A video of the brawl, which crept into the front row of the stands, can be found below the statements.

Big West Statement:

The Big West is issuing public reprimands and affirming suspensions following an altercation in the UC Davis at UC Santa Barbara men’s basketball game on February 11, 2023. 

UC Santa Barbara’s Andre Kelly and Ty Johnson of UC Davis were both ejected for fighting late in the second half which results in an automatic one-game suspension for their next contest by NCAA Rule 10, Section 5, Article 11. Those suspensions will both be served on Wednesday, February 15, when the Aggies host CSUN and the Gauchos play UC Irvine. 

Additionally, The Big West affirms and supports the decision of UC Davis to suspend assistant coach Jonathan Metzger-Jones for one game, pending further review, following his actions and involvement in the incident. 

“As we continually review with our membership, unsportsmanlike and unprofessional conduct is not acceptable and will not be tolerated,” said Big West Commissioner Dan Butterly. “The health and safety of our student-athletes, coaches, officials, staff and fans is always a top priority in The Big West.” 

UC Davis Athletic Director Rocko DeLuca Statement:

“After reviewing video of last night’s incident at UCSB and discussing it with the Big West and Coach Les, I am immediately suspending Assistant Coach Metzger-Jones for one game pending further review of this incident. We have high expectations for our coaches and student-athletes, and we will hold accountable those who fail to meet our expectations.”

Metzger-Jones is currently in his 7th season at UC Davis, and previously served as an assistant at Montana and UC Santa Barbara.