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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

James’ courtside crash raises concerns for NBA fan safety

Associated Press

CLEVELAND (AP) – For years, NBA fans have been willing to pay thousands to sit courtside and watch some of the world’s most powerful athletes run and jump.

Up close, there is nothing quite like the experience.

On Thursday night, that thrill came with a heavy price.

Chasing after a loose ball, Cavaliers superstar LeBron James crashed into the wife of PGA golf champion Jason Day, sending her tumbling violently backward from her seat in an incident that could push the league to consider changes to protect its fans.

Ellie Day, who gave birth to her second child last month, was hospitalized from the impact of the scary encounter with the 6-foot-8, 250-pound James.

Ellie Day was released from MetroHealth Medical Center early Friday morning, according to hospital spokeswoman Tina Shaerban Arundel.

Jason Day’s agent later said in a statement that she was suffering from concussion symptoms and resting comfortably. Bud Martin added that Ellie Day had no hard feelings toward James, quoting her as saying, “He was just doing his job. Go Cavs.”

James was unable to slow himself in time from plowing into Ellie Day, who was sitting next to her husband enjoying the Cavs’ 104-100 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder.

James spoke briefly to Ellie Day as she was being immobilized and strapped to a backboard before being carried out of Quicken Loans Arena.

“She squeezed my hand and said she was fine. I think she was just a little weary,” said James, who was noticeably shaken by the incident.

It’s not uncommon for players to dive into the stands in NBA games. On a few occasions there have been minor injuries, but to this point nothing serious.

But fans are paying big money for premium seats that are closer than ever, creating the potential for problems.

The league has recently taken steps to improve safety, including cutting the number of photographers allowed to sit along the baselines to reduce the risk of contact with players.

With a full slate of Christmas Day games just a week away, it may be time for the NBA to consider implementing changes to make the game experience safe for fans so close to the floor.