Sun Jan 13 2019 | Matt Hamilton | Pro

Lyle Thompson, a member of the Georgia Swarm, was the subject of insensitive comments by the Philadelphia Wings announcer late in the game on Saturday night

A racially charged incident occurred on Saturday at the Wells Fargo Center, where the Philadelphia Wings were facing Lyle Thompson and the Georgia Swarm in a much-anticipated matchup. The Wings trailed by as many as five goals early, but rallied to make it a close game going into the fourth quarter.

As is customary at Wings games, public address announcer Shawny Hill’s voice can be heard during play, energizing fans throughout the contest. However, with just under four minutes remaining in the game, Hill made an insensitive comment about Thompson and his braided ponytail.

As Thompson ran up the floor, the announcer said, “Let’s snip the ponytail right there.” Afterward, Thompson alleges fans threatened to "scalp" him.

The comments drew the ire of some fans at Wells Fargo Center immediately. The game moved on — eventually ending the Swarm’s 13-11 victory.

Later Saturday night, Thompson shared his thoughts on Hill’s comments during the game.

2019 and the @NLLwings arena announcer saying “let’s snip the pony tail” to the whole arena and fans saying they’re going to scalp me.... damn Daniel. — LYLE THOMPSON (@lyle4thompson) January 13, 2019

Thompson was backed up by teammates and fellow players on social media.

Great game and atmosphere @NLLwings but it was overshadowed by your in game announcer’s comments towards my teammates, “let’s snip the braid” was disgusting and a reality for my ancestors when they were forced into Christian residential schools — Brendan Bomberry (@Leftybombz21) January 13, 2019

Embarrassing & disgraceful. We’re not nearly as far along as we think we are. Damn shame. We’re all rockin with you, 4. https://t.co/fYg8wzTZD8 — Kyle Harrison (@KyleHarrison18) January 13, 2019

The comment was targeted at Thompson’s hair, worn in a ponytail — customary to many Native American tribes, including the Six Nations. The long hair carries strong cultural significance for the Native American people. Thompson offered a little more context on the issue in an Instagram post on Nov. 9.