Orlando Magic Heckler Gets Death Threats Over 'Monkey' Comment
Source: www.local6.com
October 31, 2006
ORLANDO, Fla. -- An Orlando Magic basketball fan who was banned for the remainder of the season after saying Houston Rockets center Dikembe Mutombo looked like a "monkey" is now receiving death threats over the incident, according to Local 6 News.
During the recent Houston Rocket basketball game at the TD Waterhouse Centre, fan Hooman Hamzehloui yelled what some consider a racial slur to Mutombo, Local 6 sports director Todd Lewis said.
Seconds later, Mutombo tried to go after him, but was restrained by Rockets trainer Keith Jones and referee Phil Robinson.
During an interview with Local 6, Hamzehloui said he made the monkey comment and demanded an apology from Mutombo and the NBA over the incident. However, he later wrote a letter of apology to Mutombo.
Monday, Local 6 News confirmed that Hamzehloui was banned from all Orlando home games for the entire season.
The NBA backed up the MagicÂ’s decision, banning Hamzehloui from all other NBA games for the 2006-07 season, according to Local 6 News partner Florida Today.
"We have received word tonight that he is receiving death threats, which is not good," Lewis said.
Magic spokesman Joel Glass said the franchise would have no further comment on the ban because of pending legal issues.
Glass said the Magic interviewed several fans sitting around Hamzehloui to confirm he directed the racial insults toward Mutombo.
Hamzehloui, a Windermere resident and realtor, purchased print advertising in Magic Magazine last season, and the team plans to refund that money.
Recently, Hamzehloui hosted a party for Magic season-ticket holders at his home.
