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E-40 and the Sacramento Kings have released a joint statement following the rapper's ejection from Game 1 of the first-round series between the Golden State Warriors and Kings on Sunday night.
The press release follows what is described as "a series of thoughtful and transparent conversations" between E-40 and Kings staff. In the immediate aftermath of the April 16 incident, E-40 said "racial bias" was to blame for him being asked to leave his courtside seat mid-game.
The new statement blames a "miscommunication" on both sides for what transpired with the Kings making it clear that E-40 will be welcome back to the Golden 1 Center in the future. Read the whole message below.
“After a series of thoughtful and transparent conversations, both parties agree that there was a miscommunication regarding the circumstances that occurred during the Kings vs. Warriors game on Saturday night."
“Contrary to speculation, Mr. Earl “E-40” Stevens did not stand excessively from his ticketed courtside seat; the outcome resulted from an unfortunate misunderstanding between both parties.”
“The Kings will continue to equitably enforce the NBA Fan Code of Conduct to ensure guests can comfortably enjoy games free of disrespectful heckling and other disruptive conduct. The organization has been a longtime leader in promoting social justice and racial equality with a track record of measurable results and community impacts. Mr. Stevens has previously attended games at Golden 1 Center without incident, and the Kings look forward to welcoming him back to our arena in the future.”
