What one fan termed "a massive brawl" broke out at the Brainerd High School gym on Saturday night.
The fight during a contest with visiting Austin East from Knoxville drew in not only players, but fans.
The Sheriff's Office said, "Earlier tonight, during a basketball game at Brainerd High School against an out of town team, a fight broke out consisting of parents, students, and players.
"Law Enforcement personnel on scene, including HCSO School Resource Officers, attempted to stop the fight while additional law enforcement units responded.
"During the altercation, one student did sustain injuries and was transported to a local hospital. The extent of their injuries is not known.
"Currently, the incident is under investigation and charges may be pending based on the outcome of the investigation."
County school officials said, "At a basketball game earlier tonight between Brainerd High and Austin-East of Knoxville, a fight broke out involving players and spectators from the stands. Administrators and law enforcement at the game moved quickly to restore order. One Brainerd High student was injured and taken to the hospital accompanied by parents in attendance at the game. The student was treated and released."
“I am disappointed in the actions displayed at tonight’s game,” said Dr. Zac Brown, interim principal at Brainerd High School. “We expect both teams and fans to display sportsmanship on and off of the court.” He added, “I do want to thank all of the Brainerd staff members and adults in the gym who intervened in the appropriate way.”
Hamilton County Schools and the administration of Brainerd High would like to thank law enforcement, security, coaches, and fans at the game who responded to the situation to protect players and spectators. The incident is under investigation by the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office.
The incident started when two players on the court scuffled.
The game will not be counted.
It ended shortly before the end of the first half with Brainerd ahead 36-32.