FIBA issues penalty: Petrušev strikes opponent's abdomen, fined €5000 and suspended for one game with probation

On August 30th Beijing time, FIBA revealed the European Championship penalties, disciplining Serbian player Petrušev. In the Serbia versus Portugal game, Petrušev hit a Portuguese opponent in the stomach and was sent off. Prior to his exit, he made 2 shots with 1 successful, totaling 2 points.

The FIBA Disciplinary Committee has imposed the following sanctions on the player—

Suspension: A one-game ban from official FIBA competitions, suspended for a probation period of three years (note: if no further violations occur during probation, the suspension will not be enforced; if breached, the suspension takes immediate effect);

Fine: A penalty of 5,000 euros has been imposed.

Slow-motion footage shows that with over five minutes left in the first quarter, Petrušev delivered a foul blow to a nearby Portuguese player’s abdomen, causing him to fall in pain. After reviewing the replay, the referee ejected Petrušev. Ultimately, Serbia won the match 80-69 over Portugal, securing their second consecutive group stage victory. During the game, Serbia also lost key player Bogdan, who withdrew due to a hamstring injury and did not play in the entire second half.

FIBA's penalty means Petrušev will not be immediately suspended, but if he commits another violent act, the one-game suspension will be enforced at once.