AAA Ejects 12 Players After Barton–England Semifinal Altercation

The Arkansas Activities Association (AAA) announced Tuesday that five Barton High School players have been ruled ineligible for the Class 2A boys basketball state championship following their involvement in a fight during Saturday’s semifinal game against England in Poyen.

According to the AAA, the Barton players were ejected for unsportsmanlike conduct. Under association rules, any player ejected for this reason is not allowed to participate in the next contest. As a result, the five Barton players will miss the championship game against Mount Vernon-Enola scheduled for Thursday at Bank OZK Arena in Hot Springs.

The AAA also determined that seven England players were involved in the altercation and have been ejected as well. England’s season ended with its semifinal loss.

AAA Executive Director Lance Taylor said the behavior displayed after the game did not reflect the principles of school athletics.

Officials reviewed video from several angles to determine which individuals were involved. According to the association, any participant who took part in the altercation or initiated unsportsmanlike behavior was removed from eligibility.

Footage of the incident circulated on social media following the game. Video posted online shows the situation escalating in the final seconds of Barton’s 52-51 victory. After a foul was called just before the end of the game, fans rushed the court believing the contest had ended. During the on-court celebration, an England player appeared to strike a Barton player, which quickly led to a larger confrontation before the video ended.

The Grant County Sheriff’s Office has also opened a criminal investigation into the incident. Authorities said Monday that charges will be pursued against individuals involved in the fight, although no suspects had been publicly identified at that time.

Law enforcement officers from the Grant County Sheriff’s Office, Sheridan Police Department, and Arkansas State Police, along with school personnel, worked to restore order following the altercation.

The AAA stated it will cooperate fully with law enforcement as the investigation continues.

----------

Watch England vs. Barton Semi-Final match here