New Mexico State has taken decisive action by announcing the indefinite suspension of Robert Carpenter, the men’s basketball player, following his involvement in a physical altercation during Thursday night’s game against Liberty with the video of him throwing the punch viral
The suspension comes in the wake of Carpenter delivering a punch to the face of his opponent, Shiloh Robinson, resulting in his ejection from the game.
NMSU basketball player Robert Carpenter punches Shiloh Robinson of Liberty, fight video goes viral
New Mexico State player Robert Carpenter has been indefinitely suspended by the Aggies, after this punch thrown during last night's @LibertyMBB game. The ejection brought an automatic 1-game suspension from the NCAA. @13Sports @ABC13News #CUSAMBB pic.twitter.com/k2JC5TBxR4
— Dave Walls (@DaveWallsWSET) February 2, 2024
When Did Incident Occurred?
The Incident occurred approximately 12 minutes into the first half, as Carpenter and Robinson engaged in a confrontation while vying for position under the hoop.
Video footage reveals a skirmish involving pushing and shoving, culminating in Carpenter throwing a right hook that struck Robinson’s face directly. The forceful blow led to Robinson collapsing in pain, prompting Carpenter’s immediate ejection with a flagrant foul 2.
Aggies Coach Anticipating Carpenter’s Suspension
Despite New Mexico State securing a 79-73 overtime victory, Aggies coach Jason Hooten expressed his disapproval of Carpenter’s actions, deeming them unacceptable and anticipating a forthcoming suspension for the player.
Hooten emphasized the lack of tolerance for such behavior in the game, acknowledging Carpenter’s remorse while underscoring the inappropriateness of the incident.
In a statement, Hooten stated “Even if there was something that put Rob in that state of mind to do what he did. It’s still not acceptable.” Hello further added that “feels really bad about what he did. There’s just no room for that in the game. At all.”
NMSU Announced Carpenter’s Indefinite Suspension
In response to the incident, New Mexico State Athletics issued a statement on Friday, announcing Carpenter’s indefinite suspension from all team activities effective immediately.
The decision, fueled by a commitment to upholding the university’s standards, goes beyond the mandatory one-game suspension outlined by NCAA rules for such altercations.
The statement underscores the Aggie men’s basketball program’s emphasis on values like sportsmanship and respect. Carpenter, a key contributor to the Aggies’ success this season, averaging 10.2 points and 4.1 rebounds per game, will definitively miss the upcoming game against Jacksonville State.
The university’s decision to impose an indefinite suspension reflects its dedication to ensuring that actions contrary to their principles are not tolerated.
Coach Hooten, in a formal statement, conveyed his apologies to Liberty coach Ritchie McKay and the entire program for Carpenter’s actions, labeling them as a display of poor judgment.
Despite Carpenter’s regret and apologies to teammates and the community, the university stands firm on its commitment to maintaining a high standard of conduct, sending a clear message about the importance of sportsmanship and respect within the Aggie men’s basketball program.
ALSO READ: Hala Madrid and Madridista meaning in football and English explained and Real Madrid chant lyrics