I was disturbed to hear of the actions of some so called fans of the Saluki men’s basketball team.

At the close of the January 6 game versus Illinois State, a couple of SIU fans shouted remarks at Saluki forward Scott Burzynski as he was leaving the court. These comments were not ones of praise, thanking Scott for his unnoticed 17 points, 10 rebounds, and three assists in the victory against the Redbirds. Instead, these ungrateful fans were putting down Scott, to his face.

In response, Scott shouted back at the gentlemen.

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I have known Scott since grade school. He is not the type of person to lose his temper. Whatever these fans had said, obviously wasn’t something a true fan would say.

During every home game this season, I have sat near these fans. Throughout every game, I have heard them shouting derogatory comments about Scott. This makes it difficult for me to enjoy the game.

Coach Herrin chooses to start Scott for a very good reason, he is a good player. In my opinion, Scott is a leader of the team.

These people are entitled to their opinion of Scott or any other player. However, shouting at a player and putting him down are not the actions of a true fan, regardless of a player’s performance.

In no way does this help the team, not to mention it is very rude. In fact, it probably has a negative impact on a player’s performance.

If these men cannot keep their comments to themselves, I believe they should sit in the opponent’s section, because they obviously are not there to help the Salukis.