San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama was ejected for the first time in his career after striking Minnesota Timberwolves forward Naz Reid.
The incident occurred during Game 4 of the Western Conference semifinals when Wembanyama was expelled from the game with 8:39 remaining in the second quarter after an elbow to Naz Reid’s jaw.
The act was ruled a Flagrant 2, including unnecessary and excessive contact.
The ejection marks the earliest one of an All-Star in a playoff game since the NBA began tracking play-by-play data in 1997-98.
Dylan Harper, Spurs rookie, sat in stunned silence after Wembanyama threw the elbow. His viral reaction took the internet by storm and grabbed the audience’s attention.
It was a complete departure from Wembanyama’s usual composed demeanour as he was not the one to show physical outburst during the game. So his striking left many people stunned.
Coach Mitch Johnson called the lack of officiating protection for Wembanyama “disgusting,” suggesting Wembanyama was forced to protect himself due to constant uncalled physicality from the defender.
“It’s starting to get disgusting in terms of when he tries to fight through things, be professional and mature and deal with some of that stuff. I’m glad he took matters into his own hands. Not in terms of hitting Naz Reid, but he’s going to have to protect himself if they’re not. And I think it’s disgusting,” Johnson said.
Despite losing their star player so early in the game, the Spurs remained competitive but ultimately lost 114-109.
A Flagrant 2 carries an automatic $2,000 fine and is subject to further review by the NBA league office for possible suspension or additional fines. It also remains to be seen whether Wembanyama will play in Game 5 or not.
Game 5 is scheduled for Tuesday in San Antonio.
