Pierce

BOSTON — Boston guard Paul Pierce issued a statement before last night’s game denying that the “menacing gesture” that he was fined $25,000 for in Game Three was gang-related.

The incident in question happened after Atlanta forward Al Horford scored the final basket of Game Three. Pierce was knocked to the floor on the play and Horford stood over him and had a few things to say.

Pierce got up slowly, walked toward mid-court and threw up what NBA officials believe was a gang sign. Pierce formed a circle with his right thumb and index finger and extended his three other fingers before being pulled away by Brian Scalabrine.

The hand signal is similar to the gang sign used by the Piru Blood gang in Pierce’s hometown of Inglewood, Calif.

It’s also consistent with “three’s up” or the “B” hand signal used by Boston teen gang members. Pierce and the Celtics have denied all week that the gesture is gang related.

Earlier this week, Boston coach Doc Rivers said he believes Pierce should appeal the fine, but that may not come until the season ends.

Pierce said in his statement last night, “I don’t want to take the focus away from the playoffs. In sports, emotions run high. After playing for 10 years in Boston, I think Celtics fans know that I am a passionate player.

“I 100 percent do not in any way promote gang violence or anything close to it. I am sorry if it was misinterpreted that way at Saturday’s game. In fact, through my Truth foundation I am committed to giving back to youth groups and making sure young people have the opportunities to succeed in life.

“I am extremely proud of the work I have done through the foundation to provide positive influences and safe havens for inner city kids.”

The Celtics say the gesture stands for, “blood, sweat, and tears.”

“We’ve talked about it from day one, that’s what it takes to get the job done and that’s what it takes to win,” said Boston guard Rajon Rondo, who added that he too makes the gesture on occasion.

“That’s what Pose [Boston forward James Posey], that’s what his motto was in his series when he won the championship [with Miami]. Every game, he does blood, sweat and tears,” Celtics executive director of basketball operations Danny Ainge said earlier this week. “That’s kind of his sign. It’s not anything related to anything. That’s what he does. Every single game during the introductions.”

When asked about the fine earlier this week, NBA Commissioner David Stern said, “I would say that the league is sending a message that says ‘You’re the best athletes in the world. Play the game. If you get baited, don’t take the bait. Let’s play. Let’s show what you’ve got, which happens to be the most extraordinary athletes playing a spectacular game. We’re not going to let it degenerate into something else. Period.’ ”

roblee@projo.com