Mili Simic
BASKETBALL
The Wollongong Hawks are fuming over the NBL's decision to slap a $1500 fine on centre Larry Davidson.
Wollongong general manager Mili Simic said the club would not be commenting publicly but it is understood the Hawks are looking into possible avenues of appeal.
Davidson was fined after being found guilty of tripping Sydney's Ben Madgen in last Friday's round 23 game at WIN Entertainment Centre.
Footage of the incident shows Davidson falling to the ground while chasing a rebound and grabbing Madgen's leg and foot as the Kings guard was about to run in the other direction.
But the Hawks are adamant the same footage shows Madgen shifting firstly to his left, away from Davidson, before moving back in Davidson's direction and forcing him to protect himself.
Wollongong officials say the penalty is too harsh in comparison to other on-court offences and fines in recent years.
They believe a $1000 fine would have been sufficient.
Simic is also concerned the league did not follow usual tribunal procedure by failing to communicate with the club before fining Davidson.
NBL general manager Chuck Harmison rejected suggestions the Hawks were unfairly punished.
"They're within their rights to question it, but our position is that the tribunal has given him a fair hearing," Harmison said.
"It's come up with a penalty that, while severe, is not completely out of the realms of believability or inconsistent with past hearings.
"It's at the higher end of the scale for fines, no question of that, but we've also fined guys $1000 for physical altercations."
Harmison said the NBL tribunal process was not flawless.
"This is the process we've had for quite a number of years. Does it need to change? Possibly. But we have so few of these appearances.
"The Hawks have the opportunity to appeal."
The Hawks are confident the controversy won't have a negative impact on their buildup to tomorrow night's season-ending home game against Adelaide.