Brawl breaks out after Phoenixville-Pottstown boys’ basketball game; at least 1 detained

A brawl occurred in the gymnasium lobby at Perkiomen Valley High School between Phoenixville and Pottstown spectators following Friday’s Pioneer Athletic Conference boys’ basketball semifinal game  At least one person was detained by police.

The altercation happened after Phoenixville defeated Pottstown 80-56 in the opening game of a semifinal doubleheader.

At least one person, a male teen, was detained by police.

Event security, administrators, local police and State Police responded to the incident. Pepper spray was utilized to break up the fight.

Police declined to give details about the incident or arrests.

It was unclear who began the fight, but observers said pockets of fighting broke out after it began, with more than 10 people allegedly involved.

“The District regrets there was an incident at the conclusion of the first game and hopes that the individuals involved were not seriously injured. I appreciate the support of the Pennsylvania State police, our school police officers and security guards as well as the cooperation of our fans,” Perkiomen Valley Superintendent Dr. Barbara Russell said in a statement.

The fight occurred during the first half of the second semifinal game, between Spring-Ford and Perkiomen Valley. Spectators watching the second game were told to stay in place during halftime until the matter was resolved in the lobby.