Brawl breaks out at H.S. basketball game in Griffith, Ind.

GRIFFITH, Ind. (WLS) -- A bench-clearing brawl broke out Saturday at a high school basketball game in Griffith, Indiana, causing some adults to get involved.

Parents say tension was brewing before the game started. The basketball brawl ended the game quickly and because punches were thrown, police are investigating. The fight may result in arrests.

It was only the first quarter. The Griffith Panthers were hosting the Hammond Wildcats. One of the home team's players had the ball and as he was coming down the court for a dunk, a Hammond player fouled him so hard, the Griffith High School player was pushed into the padded wall and that is when a fight broke out.

"The fight escalated to have both benches clear on to the court," said Chief Greg Mance, Griffith Police Department. "Some parents, administrators and officers working security also went to on floor to break fight up."

Police say punches were thrown. The brawl came to an end and so did the game, as IHSAA game officials quickly called it. Griffith Police are taking the melee very seriously. Students and adults may face possible disorderly conduct or battery charges.

"We are reviewing the video that was taken trying to identify the people involved and present to the lake county prosecutor," Chief Mance said.

For the small town of Griffith the fight is disappointing to residents and parents. They say after years of a mediocre team, this year the Panthers are the team to beat.

"Structured sports is all about team work and having fun, I think what happened last night is completely uncalled for," said Griffith resident Kayla Wolak.

"None of these kids are going to the NBA, they should all take a chill pill and relax," Griffith resident Chris Cioroianu said.

Parents say kids must put in all in perspective. The Indiana High School Athletic Association will be taking to administrators at both schools Monday before deciding on disciplinary action.

ABC7 Eyewitness News reached out to both Griffith and Hammond High Schools, but did not get a response.