Kalamazoo Basketball Game Incident Leads To Student Suspensions

Tensions flare during handshake line after game, raising concerns about sportsmanship

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Multiple students have been suspended after a fight broke out following a basketball game between Kalamazoo Central and Battle Creek Central. The incident occurred during the post-game handshake line, with a Kalamazoo Central player allegedly approaching and confronting a Battle Creek Central player. The Battle Creek Central player claims he was merely defending himself and is owed an apology, but has been suspended nonetheless.

Why it matters

The incident highlights ongoing concerns about sportsmanship and student behavior at high school sporting events. While physical altercations are never acceptable, the differing perspectives on who was at fault raise questions about how schools and athletic programs can better promote positive interactions between players, especially in the emotionally-charged moments after a game.

The details

According to reports, the game between Kalamazoo Central and Battle Creek Central ended with Kalamazoo winning 68-52. During the post-game handshake line, a Kalamazoo Central player allegedly walked from the back of the line and approached a Battle Creek Central player. The Battle Creek Central player claims he was simply shaking hands and patting opponents on the back when the Kalamazoo player confronted him, leading him to go into "fight or flight mode" and back away. However, the Kalamazoo player's parents felt their son was in the right, leading to the suspensions.

  • The game between Kalamazoo Central and Battle Creek Central took place on February 14, 2026.
  • The incident in the handshake line occurred immediately after the game ended.

The players

Akilah Artis

The mother of the Battle Creek Central player involved in the incident, who claims her son was merely defending himself and is owed an apology.

Player #33

The Kalamazoo Central player who allegedly approached and confronted the Battle Creek Central player in the handshake line.

Player #2

The Battle Creek Central player involved in the incident, who claims he was simply shaking hands and patting opponents on the back when he was confronted.

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What they’re saying

“My son was not the aggressor by any means in this altercation, but the parents from Kzoo Central felt differently. The proof is in the video. That young man #33 walked from the back of the line and approached my son. My son#2 went into fight or flight mode. He backed up away from the young man #33. At that moment, #33 could have stopped, but he continued after my son. My son, if anything, is owed an APOLOGY!!!”

— Akilah Artis, Mother of Battle Creek Central player (wearekalamazoo.com)

“As for Battle Creek Central and the rule of no contact when it comes to fighting, let me ask you this: If my son had gotten stomped out and been in the hospital, would he have been suspended when he got out of the hospital??? The fact that he is suspended for defending himself is ridiculous!!!!”

— Akilah Artis, Mother of Battle Creek Central player (wearekalamazoo.com)

What’s next

The school districts involved are expected to review the incident and suspensions, and determine if any policy changes or additional training for student-athletes is needed to promote better sportsmanship.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the need for schools, coaches, and student-athletes to prioritize good sportsmanship and conflict de-escalation, especially in the emotional moments after competitive games. While physical altercations cannot be tolerated, understanding the nuances of each situation and promoting a culture of mutual respect is crucial for maintaining a positive athletic environment.