Image Source: Reuters
[Saba Sports News] Minnesota Timberwolves’ Rudy Gobert has been hit with a hefty fine from the NBA, totaling $100,000. The fine was imposed for Gobert’s “inappropriate and unprofessional gesture” towards a game official and his public criticism of the game’s officiating, with his history of similar offenses contributing to the penalty’s severity.
The incident occurred during a game against the Cleveland Cavaliers, where Gobert expressed his disagreement with a foul call by making a “money” gesture, implying financial influence on the referee’s decisions. Although Gobert later expressed regret, noting the negative impact on his team, he also voiced a strong belief that his gesture conveyed his genuine concerns about the integrity of NBA officiating, hinting at possible game-fixing.
This is not Gobert’s first fine for critiquing officials, as he faced a $25,000 penalty the previous year for similar reasons. The technical foul he received played a crucial role in the game’s outcome, potentially costing the Timberwolves a victory in regulation.