Image Source: NBA.com
[Saba Sports News] Russell Westbrook has been finding his stride with the Denver Nuggets, but his enthusiasm may have gone a bit too far during a recent game.
On Friday, the NBA announced a $35,000 fine for the former MVP guard following an incident in Wednesday’s loss to the New York Knicks. Westbrook was penalized for making an obscene gesture after hitting a three-pointer in the fourth quarter, flipping off the Knicks bench.
The moment unfolded with six minutes left in the game and the Nuggets facing a significant deficit. After being blocked at the rim by Knicks guard Josh Hart, Westbrook regained possession as the Knicks bench loudly called for a travel. No whistle was blown, and Westbrook responded by sinking a corner three and flipping the bird to the opposing bench.
Despite the Nuggets’ lopsided 145-118 loss, Westbrook delivered a strong individual performance with a team-high 27 points. He has embraced a productive bench role in his first season with Denver, averaging 14.5 points and 7.4 assists over his last five games.
However, the league’s swift action served as a reminder that such gestures don’t go unnoticed—just as another NBA star recently learned the hard way.