BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Following a postgame altercation between the Arkansas-Pine Bluff and Grambling State football teams on Saturday, the Southwestern Athletic Conference has announced that numerous players will be suspended from the teams.

After conducting a thorough investigation and coordinated review with both institutions, it was determined that both schools violated the league’s code of ethics and conduct by committing acts of unsportsmanlike conduct.

Twenty-three student-athletes—nine from Arkansas-Pine Bluff and 14 from Grambling State—have been suspended for their respective involvement in the altercation. Of the total number of 23 suspensions, multiple players have been disciplined with two game suspensions due to the severity of their actions.

Additionally, in accordance with the league’s bylaws and sports regulations, the conference has also issued $25,000 fines against both Arkansas-Pine Bluff and Grambling State.

“We’re extremely disappointed by the events that transpired during postgame of the Arkansas-Pine Bluff at Grambling State football game,” said SWAC Commissioner Charles McClelland in a prepared statement. “Acts of that nature have zero place in the Southwestern Athletic Conference and intercollegiate athletics.

“The Conference Office has and will continue to enforce a zero-tolerance policy for all acts deemed to be unsportsmanlike and contrary to the high standard of good sportsmanship we expect from all individuals associated with the athletics programs within our league.”

Grambling State University also issued statements on Monday regarding the incident and subsequent suspensions. Grambling Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Trayvean D. Scott said in a prepared statement that the behavior exhibited following Saturday's contest does not reflect the values of Grambling State University or the expectations of the school’s athletics department and that officials strongly condemn these actions.

“I take these matters seriously and remain committed to fostering an environment that promotes respect, integrity and sportsmanship,” Scott said. "I apologize to the Grambling State University community and to the UAPB team and their fans. I have been in contact with UAPB Director of Athletics Chris Robinson to express our sincere apologies, as well."