The NBA has seen a fair few episodes with security at the arena in recent times. The alert guard who tackled a protestor trying to get on to the court in Minnesota is a positive one. At the same time, the security that let the Klay Thompson lookalike into the building is something that’s painted them in a more negative light.
Well, these stories seem to have carried on into the Summer League. While not a lot of stars take part in the Summer League at all, many show up to watch their teams play. LeBron James and Russell Westbrook were both in the arena during the Lakers game, which led to some different headlines. So it’s not a shock to see that. Payton Pritchard wanted to go be on the bench when the Celtics played the Heat.
While Pritchard isn’t a star, he still established himself as a key piece for the Celtics during their playoff run. This didn’t help him, though, as security tried to stop him before front office members had to get involved in getting Pritchard through.
Well, this was rather embarrassing… Celtic guard Payton Pritchard stopped by security. Wouldn't let him into restricted area so he could sit with C's coaches. VP of communications Taylor Kielpinski-Rogers had to vouch for him. Pritchard burned the strings in this gym last year. pic.twitter.com/d7MuKUt2dj
— Steve Bulpett (@SteveBHoop) July 9, 2022
“Well, this was rather embarrassing… Celtic guard Payton Pritchard stopped by security. Wouldn’t let him into restricted area so he could sit with C’s coaches. VP of communications Taylor Kielpinski-Rogers had to vouch for him. Pritchard burned the strings in this gym last year.”
This isn’t a good look for the security personnel, even though it may have just been an honest mistake. When fans can get mistaken for players across the league but actual players are stopped, it may be time for the league to review its security policies for its events.
This isn’t too big of an issue, Pritchard has likely brushed it off himself, but he may also take it as a motivational situation to establish himself even further next season. While he has been a bench player in the league so far, there is no reason he can’t continue his development and break out as a serious shooter this coming season.
