Verdict in after all-time brain explosion Hodgson unleashed at Vasiljevic. Image: ESPN/Getty

Hodgson’s brain-snap sparked a wild brawl that spilt onto the sidelines and when it subsided, the Perth big man was ejected from the contest.

At the conclusion of a three-hour hearing on Friday, the NBL tribunal upheld the two striking charges laid by the league earlier in the week, but dismissed the charge of “engage in a melee/brawl”.

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Hodgson was handed a three-match ban, but two of those matches have been suspended.

He won’t be available for selection in Saturday’s clash with South East Melbourne Phoenix, but will be back on deck for the grand final replay against Melbourne United next Saturday.

Crucially, Hodgson will also be free to line up in the Wildcats’ rematch with the Kings on February 19.

Kings players Jarell Martin, Xavier Cooks, Jaylen Adams and Wani Swaka Lo Buluk were all pinged for their roles in the melee but have escaped with fines.

On Wednesday, Hodgson issued an apology.

“I consider my reaction out of character and I’m extremely disappointed in myself, as I’ve let down my teammates, club and fans,” he said.
“To Dejan, I‘m sorry, there is no excuse for my behaviour.

“I take full responsibility for my actions and will make every effort to improve myself physically and mentally before returning to the court.”

The Perth Wildcats issued a statement of their own after Hodgson was charged.

“The Perth Wildcats pride ourselves on integrity and character and do not condone the actions that occurred during Sunday’s contest,” the club said.

“While out of character, Hodgson’s actions were not in line with the club’s core values, or the type of behaviour it expects from its players and staff as role models in the community.”