The Kings, E-40 says that “miscommunication” led to Game 1’s firing in a joint statement

The Kings and Bay Area rapper Earl “E-40” Stevens issued a joint statement Wednesday regarding his Game 1 firing from the Golden 1 Center.

Both the organization and Stephens, a Golden State Warriors fan, agreed that a misunderstanding led to his removal from a front row seat during Saturday’s opening game between the two teams.

“After a series of thoughtful and transparent conversations, the two parties have agreed that there was a misunderstanding regarding the circumstances that occurred during the Kings vs. Warriors game Saturday night,” the statement read.

Stevens alleged, in a statement released Monday, that “racial prejudice” was the reason behind his dismissal. Stevens said that after being disrespectfully harassed throughout the game, he “turned around and addressed a reviewer in a firm but polite manner” in the final quarter before sacking him.

Male Mark J. Spears from Andscape, Citing sources, that “Golden 1 Center Security thought E-40 stood excessively, obscured the fans’ view behind him, and refused to heed the warning after many complaints”. A spokesperson for Stevens said he was not issued a warning, and a source told Spurs that Stevens’ friend Brandon Shorstein, who is white, was not fired, which played a role in his concerns.

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The joint statement continued, “Contrary to speculation, Mr. Earl ‘E-40’ Stevens did not rise excessively from his seat flanked by a ticket; the result was an unfortunate misunderstanding between the parties.”

“The Kings will continue to fairly enforce the NBA Fan Code of Conduct to ensure that guests can comfortably enjoy games free from disrespectful harassment and other disruptive behavior. The organization has been a long-time leader in promoting social justice and racial equality with a track record of measurable results and impacts on society.”

While Stephens is expected to return to his seat for game three on Thursday at the Chase Center, the Kings said they look forward to “welcoming him back to our arena in the future.”