High school basketball coach charged with assaulting fan after a game in NC
West Lincoln High first-year coach Chad Wright ran into the stands following a high school basketball game Tuesday night and struck a fan, according to a report from the Lincoln County Sherriff’s Office. He is now facing misdemeanor charges.
The incident occurred after West Lincoln lost 63-28 to Newton-Conover. West Lincoln is now 0-13 for the season. On average, the team is losing by 27 points per game.
West Lincoln is 1-59 over the past three seasons, when it has had three different coaches.
Following Tuesday’s loss, a Lincoln County deputy reported that he heard a fan yell at Wright, 48, as Wright walked off the court. One fan, in a small group, raised his hand and indicated he had made the remark.
Wright ran into the stands, according to the Lincoln County Sherriff’s office release, and struck the man in the head. The two began wrestling in the stands, while a female fan began taunting the coach.
Deputies arrested Wright and he was later charged with one misdemeanor count each of assault on a female, simple assault and battery and disorderly conduct. He was released on a $1,500 secured bond.
West Lincoln athletics director David Avery said Wright has been placed on administrative leave with pay from Lincoln County Schools. Via email, West Lincoln principal Brian Clary said assistant coach John Markley will be coaching the team Friday when West Lincoln plays rival Lincolnton.
This story was originally published January 9, 2020 at 12:53 PM.
