SEC fines South Carolina $5,000 for fans rushing court

COLUMBIA, S.C. -- South Carolina was fined $5,000 by the Southeastern Conference on Friday for violating league policy that prohibits spectators from going onto the court during or after a game.

After South Carolina beat No. 3 Kentucky 73-61 on Tuesday night, fans rushed the court to celebrate.

The fine was part of the SEC's new policy for football and men's and women's basketball games. A second offense calls for a $25,000 fine; a third costs $50,000.

The policy went into effect Dec. 1, less than two weeks after a brawl involving players and fans at the Indianapolis Pacers-Detroit Pistons game Nov. 19 and followed the next day by a brawl among players in the Clemson-South Carolina football game.

"This policy is designed to create a safe environment for everyone who participates and attends our athletic contests," SEC commissioner Mike Slive said. "I understand the exuberance of the moment but the security and protection of our student-athletes, coaches, officials and fans is our primary concern."

South Carolina athletic director Mike McGee said, "The rule is the rule, and we support the rule. We have addressed the situation, and we will do a better job of keeping the students and the fans off the court from this point forward."

The university's Student Senate, some of whom admitted getting caught up in the moment, had agreed earlier to donate the money to cover the fine. However, the athletic department said Friday it would cover the cost of the fine.