Teams Removed From NJ State Basketball Championship After Brawl: Camden Schools

CAMDEN, NJ — Two Camden boys' basketball teams, both defending state champions, have been removed from tournament play after a mid-game fight between players.

Officials ended the first-ever Camden County Basketball Tournament on Thursday night following a brawl between Camden High School and Eastside High School players at Cherry Hill East High School.

On Friday, the Camden City Schools superintendent announced the district is withdrawing both teams from tournament play.

"This initiative is being taken to ensure that our scholar-athletes know that accountability for their actions is paramount not only in basketball but also in the larger game of life," wrote Superintendent Katrina T. McCombs.

McCombs said the district will continue to contest what she calls "unfounded" allegations of recruiting violations by state officials.

The New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) said it "welcomes" the district's decision, and added association rules "would have eliminated the two teams from tournament play."

The NJSIAA added that Lindenwold, which was scheduled to play Camden, and Clearview, set to play Eastside, "will both receive forfeit wins and advance to the next round."

Camden, defending state champions in Group 2, had a 23-2 record and were first in the Olympic Conference. Eastside, who won the Group 3 state championship last year, were 16-4 overall and 4th in the conference.