Childress was ejected in the third quarter of the 84-63 loss to the Wildcats after hitting Wagstaff with a forearm following an earlier collision.

The Kings released a statement on Sunday to say he had the team's complete support. Footage of the former NBA journeyman's incident went viral on social media and was picked up by several American media outlets.

The statement read: "Throughout his career, and ever since he joined the Sydney Kings, Josh Childress has shown himself

to be a man of outstanding character and integrity, whose actions on Friday are in no way representative of himself nor of the organisation. The club does not condone Josh's actions as they pertain to the clash with Jesse Wagstaff. However,

the club also feels that it is very important to ensure that the incident is not dealt with in a purely isolated manner and that all factors leading up to the incident are taken into consideration."

Kings chairman Phil Hudson hoped the tribunal would look at the incident in the context of the match. "In the club's view, it would be unfair and unwise to view the incident in isolation. It can and should only be assessed within the context of the entire game and how it was managed – in particular the (uncalled) foul that was committed against Josh immediately preceding the incident that led to his ejection."

Childress wanted to "try to move forward and continue to try to be positive".

"The incident itself was extreme and unnecessary," Childress said. "The game was very physical, and when you feel it's one-sided, you get frustrated. I overreacted and did something that was very uncharacteristic, and I apologise for any harm caused."

Kings coach Damian Cotter said the incident unsettled his players "but we'll manage it in the right way".

"I hope that any decision made in relation to the incident is taken with due consideration as to how the game was played out. Considering the type of person I know Josh to be, the question needs to be asked as to why he reacted as he did. Josh regrets what happened, and he's a class act. I've said that from day one, and I haven't changed my opinion."