Model says security told her to cover up her revealing outfit in order to attend Sixers game

A basketball fan said she was denied entry into a Philadelphia 76ers game because of her outfit.

Shaliah Rismay said she was stopped by security after entering Wells Fargo Center on Oct. 18. The model told Philadelphia affiliate NBC 10 that she was wearing stockings, a leotard, and a leather jacket to the team’s home opener against the Chicago Bulls.

But when she arrived, she said she was surrounded by security and forced to buy a hoodie from the merchandise store. “They stopped us and said I couldn’t even go past the metal detectors and I couldn’t wear what I’m wearing,” Rismay told the local news station.

Reuben Harley, who was with Rismay at the game, took to social media to post photos of Rismay’s outfit and ask what’s wrong with it.

Harley was very critical of how the situation was handled. “What happened here was straight discrimination,” he told NBC 10. “That was utterly embarrassing to have 15 men surround her so nobody else could see her. This happened at the tip-off. We didn’t get in the game at half time.”

Harley said Rismay’s outfit was no different from what 76ers cheerleaders were wearing. “The same thing, a leotard and some pantyhose,” Harley said. “What’s the problem? If a celebrity can do it, if the Sixers dancers can do it, why not just the regular fan?”

Harley also noted that he’s considering legal action and demanding an apology from the team.

Philadelphia 76ers dance team in action. (Photo: Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images)
Philadelphia 76ers dance team in action. (Photo: Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images)

A spokesperson for the Wells Fargo Center said the venue doesn’t have a dress code. “The Wells Fargo Center does not have an official dress code, but reserves the right to make decisions regarding access to the facility on a case-by-case basis,” the spokesperson wrote. “These decisions relate to the safety and comfort of our guests, as well as to messages, signs or clothing that are obscene or indecent. In this instance, our event staff acted respectfully considering Ms. Rismay’s attire, and handled the situation appropriately while being observed by NBA Security and a member of the City of Philadelphia police force.”

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