Image Source: NBA.com
[Saba Sports News] Fred VanVleet is facing consequences for his latest clash with NBA officials.
The Houston Rockets guard was ejected during Saturday’s 104-98 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers after a heated outburst targeting the game’s referees.
In the closing seconds of the fourth quarter, following an offensive foul call, VanVleet pointed at and unleashed profanity toward each of the three officials, leading to his immediate ejection.
On Monday, the NBA announced a $50,000 fine for VanVleet, citing his “confronting and directing profane language” at the referees. However, he avoided a suspension.
Despite the incident, the Rockets remain strong this season at 12-6, holding third place in the Western Conference. VanVleet, who finished the game with eight points, is averaging 14.5 points and 6.1 assists per game overall.
This isn’t VanVleet’s first run-in with the league over referee criticism. Last season, he was fined for calling out an official in a postgame interview, though that incident involved just one referee.