Battle to stop social media abuse of athletes steps up with police charging man for targeting star via Instagram

A man has been charged with racially abusing Montrezl Harrell via an Instagram burner account. Photo / Getty Images

In an Australian basketball first, a man has been charged with racially abusing former NBA star Montrezl Harrell using an Instagram burner account.

Basketball Australia collaborated with Victoria Police to secure the first-ever arrest after an investigation was launched in November 2024 following Harrell’s involvement in an altercation with fans at John Cain Arena as an Adelaide 36ers player.

The BA Integrity Unit was notified of a direct message targeting Harrell, identified the alleged culprit and reported the matter to Victoria Police.

On Wednesday, police arrested and charged a 37-year-old man from Huntingdale in Melbourne who was allegedly responsible for the racist message sent. It had allegedly been sent direct to Harrell’s social media account.

The man has been charged with using a carriage service to menace, harass, and/or offend.

Lauded as a “landmark moment”, BA said being able to find and charge people who send abusive messages was key to be able to “safeguard and protect athletes in all areas of public access”.

“Every athlete deserves to compete in a safe environment, free from abuse. There are laws in place to govern appropriate behaviour towards athletes, and it’s important the public understands that,” a spokesperson for BA’s Integrity Unit said.

“The individuals targeted by hateful messages are human, and Basketball Australia commends the courage it takes to call out this behaviour. Taking a stand sends a clear message of zero tolerance and helps drive the cultural change needed to create a safe sport and respectful environment for everyone.”

The alleged offender has been bailed to appear at Moorabbin Magistrates’ Court on August 15.