Guide Note

On April 28, 2008, Paul Pierce, forward for the Boston Celtics, and Washington Wizards guard, DeShawn Stevenson, were fined $25,000 by the NBA. Their violation was the making of hand signals that were interpreted as "menacing." Some speculated that the signals were gang signs. Video footage of the incident was posted on the internet.¹

Fast Facts

1. Both players made gestures in their respective post-season games
2. Pierce's gesture was directed at Al Horford in the fourth quarter
3. The Celtics lost the game to the Atlanta Hawks
4. Pierce had to be restrained by teammates after "staring down" Horford²

1. Hometown: Oakland, CA
2. College: University of Kansas
3. 1998 Draft: 10th overall Boston
4. All-Star appearances: Five

On July 16, 2008, the NFL announced that they have hired experts to examine game tapes for any gang signs flashed during games by players. After the alleged Paul Pierce incident, the idea of gang signs has become a high priority issue to watch for in sports.³

"I 100 percent do not in any way promote gang violence or anything close to it. I am sorry if it was misinterpreted that way."—Paul Pierce³