NBA Bans Alcohol Sales in Final Quarter
Fri Feb 18, 2005 10:55 AM ET

RALEIGH, N.C. (Reuters) - The NBA is banning the sale of alcohol in the final quarter of its games as part of revised guidelines prompted by a November brawl in Detroit.

The new league policy, which comes into effect Sunday, prohibits the sale of alcohol in the fourth quarter, restricts the size of drinks to 24 ounces and limits fans to two drinks per purchase.

Ten players and fans were charged with fighting following a Nov. 19 incident in the game between the Indiana Pacers and host Detroit Pistons.

Indiana's Ron Artest was suspended by the NBA for the remainder of the season after going into the stands to fight Pistons fans. Eight other players also drew suspensions of at least one game.

The guidelines also include a new fan code of conduct.

Disruptive behavior, including foul or abusive language or obscene gestures, will be prohibited as will obscene or indecent messages on signs or clothing, the NBA said.

Spectators will be subject to ejection and revocation of their season tickets if they violate the code.

Has anyone ever been to an arena which actually sold beer in the 4th quarter? I haven't.

Yeah, I don't remember that happening. But, I haven't been to an NBA game in years. I always thought they had a cut-off like this, just like MLB cuts off around the 7th inning.