NEWS OF THE WEEK: The NBA will post a fan’s code of conduct in all arenas that seeks to rein in outrageous behavior.
Professor Potter says: The idea is as old as sport itself. Greek and Roman fans could be extremely violent, before, during and after their favorite events. At chariot races there were constant fights–even killings–in the stands, despite the fact that fans of different teams sat in separate areas.
Quarrels spilled over into the streets, and one emperor had to choose between flight or sending in the imperial guard. He chose the guard, and 35,000 people died.
Actors also had fan clubs that behaved no better than the fans at chariot races. In 14 A.D., the Roman senate tried to curb the violence after imperial guards were killed trying to bring order during a performance. After considerable debate, the senate decided there was nothing it could do.
Even gladiatorial fights turned nasty when people from different towns got together. This happened in 64 A.D., when the people of Pompeii attacked their guests from neighboring Nuceria. Let’s hope the NBA rules work better.
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Edited by the sports staff of RedEye.
