Ex-Pima Star Lee Involved in February UA-BYU Basketball Brawl

A former Pima County supervisor and ex-member of the Pima Community College board, Sylvia M. Lee, faces citation on two counts of assault following an incident during a University of Arizona basketball game on February 22. The game became chaotic in the final moments, leading to controversial actions both on and off the court.

The Wildcats suffered an upset loss to Brigham Young University, 96-95. A contentious foul call allowed BYU to clinch the victory with two free throws. This decision incited a strong reaction from the crowd, leading to fans booing and chanting derogatory phrases toward the visiting team’s players, which drew backlash from the Arizona athletic department.

In light of the uproar, Arizona athletic director Desireé Reed-Francois offered an apology, emphasizing that such behavior did not represent the university’s values. Amidst the turmoil, Lee was reported to have thrown a drink onto the court shortly after the game concluded.

A University of Arizona police officer witnessed the drink being thrown but could not identify the person responsible at that moment. However, as the officer approached the scene, fans pointed out a woman in red—later identified as Lee—who attempted to leave the area.

The aftermath involved three employees being struck by the beverage. Two of these individuals agreed to pursue charges against Lee. A day later, police identified Lee through video footage and her seat assignment, confirming her identity via her driver’s license photo.

When police reached out to Lee two days post-game, she claimed the drink had spilled unintentionally after she slipped. However, authorities indicated that video evidence contradicted her explanation. Lee subsequently attended the UA police station where she was cited and released.

In a separate interview with the Green Valley News, Lee recounted a different narrative, stating an obscene gesture made by a BYU player provoked her reaction. She claimed she aimed the remnants of her ice at the player but instead hit a coach. This account differed significantly from her story to the police.

Additionally, Lee communicated remorse for her actions and has since sent an apology letter to BYU’s athletic director. While no charges have been formally filed by the Tucson City Prosecutor’s Office, Lee maintained that the case has been dismissed.

Lee’s political career includes a term on the Pima Community College Governing Board from 2012 to 2018, during which she held the position of chair. Her background encompasses significant roles within education, including serving as a campus president and dean at PCC from 1996 to 2011. Recently, in December 2023, she was appointed to the Pima County Board of Supervisors, finishing Sharon Bronson’s term, although she opted not to run for re-election in 2024.