Sacramento Kings Investigating ‘Racial Bias’ Allegations After Rapper E-40 Ejected From Playoff Game
The Sacramento Kings are currently investigating allegations of “racial bias” from rapper E-40 after he was kicked out of his seat from a playoff game against the Golden State Warriors.
E-40 said in a statement that he was consistently heckled throughout the game on Saturday, as well as one individual in particular who he “addressed in an assertive but polite manner” before security guards intervened and ordered him to leave the arena.
“Unfortunately, it was yet another reminder that – despite my success and accolades as a musician and entrepreneur – racial bias remains prevalent. Security saw a disagreement between a Black man and a white woman and immediately assumed that I was at fault.”
The Kings have stated that they are currently investigating the circumstances that led to the ejection of E-40.
“The Sacramento Kings take these claims seriously and are investigating the facts and circumstances regarding the situation, as we do anytime an accusation like this is made,” the team said in a statement.
According to the Associated Press, E-40 was allegedly standing and blocking the view of fans behind him and received a warning after several complaints. E-40 then allegedly refused to comply, leading to security officials escorting him out of his seat.
An individual familiar with the situation who spoke to AP but chose to remain anonymous, alleged that E-40 was actually never given a warning by security regarding “excessive standing.”
“It’s unfortunate. I love 40. He’s been our biggest supporter for years. I hope they right that ship because he deserves to be there by our bench. In my time knowing him, he’s always been respectful. He’s always been considerate of those around him. Very weird to see, and I hope it’s resolved,” Warriors Klay Thompson said.
E-40 is known publicly as a major Warriors fan, and was a part of the delegation that visited the White House in the beginning of the current season.
Eric Mastrota is a Contributing Editor at The National Digest based in New York. A graduate of SUNY New Paltz, he reports on world news, culture, and lifestyle. You can reach him at eric.mastrota@thenationaldigest.com.
