Overview
- E&S’s appeal was denied by Public League leadership, the PIAA and the School District, clearing Constitution to face Imhotep Charter in Tuesday’s semifinal.
- With 1:11 left and E&S leading 61-49, a Constitution player shoved an E&S player and spectators rushed the floor, prompting officials to end the quarterfinal.
- The game official’s report says Constitution’s player initiated the contact, unruly fans had been warned earlier, and E&S reserves “eased onto the court” as the crowd converged.
- League policy imposes a team forfeiture when the entire bench enters the playing area, while individual player departures can trigger personal suspensions; several Constitution players will sit the semifinal.
- E&S players, parents and staff argue athletes left the bench to protect teammates, note no punches were thrown, and contend safety failures—not intent to fight—ended their season.