LSU fined $100K for court-storm after upsetting Kentucky

Field Level Media|published: Thu 22nd February, 18:06 2024

Feb 21, 2024; Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA; LSU Tigers storm the court after the LSU Tigers defeat the Kentucky Wildcats after the game at Pete Maravich Assembly Center. credits: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports

LSU was hit with a $100,000 fine from the Southeastern Conference on Thursday after Tigers fans stormed the court at the end of Wednesday night's 75-74 upset win over No. 17 Kentucky in Baton Rouge, La.

The SEC cited a revised "access to competition area" policy updated at the conference's spring meetings last year.

"Institutions shall limit access to competition areas to participating student-athletes, coaches, officials, support personnel and properly credentialed or authorized individuals at all times," the policy says. "For the safety of participants and spectators alike, at no time before, during or after a contest may spectators enter the competition area."

LSU is considered a first-time offender under the policy. A second offense would incur a $250,000 penalty and all subsequent offenses would cost $500,000.

In conference games, the fine must be paid to the opposing institution, according to the SEC, so Kentucky will receive $100,000 from its counterpart.

LSU fans rushed the court Wednesday night after Tyrell Ward's last-second basket gave the Tigers the victory in a thrilling finish.

—Field Level Media