NBA’s Rudy Gobert Fined $75K for Repeated Money Gesture Towards Refs
Rudy Gobert apparently didn’t learn his lesson the first time— the Minnesota Timberwolves Defensive Player of the Year has been fined again for making a money gesture towards officials during a game. This time, he’s been hit with a $75,000 punishment.
Gobert was visibly upset with the officiating during the Wolves’ Game 4 loss to the Denver Nuggets on Sunday.
After being called for an offensive foul late in the fourth quarter, the 31-year-old expressed his frustration by making a money gesture, implying that the refs were influenced by sports betting.
The NBA announced the fine on Tuesday, stating Gobert was penalized $75,000 for making an “inappropriate and unprofessional gesture that questions the league and its game officials.”
This isn’t the first time Gobert has been fined for such behavior. He made the same gesture during a game against the Cleveland Cavaliers on March 8 and was fined a combined $100,000 for his actions and postgame comments.
The $100,000 fine is the maximum a player can receive for conduct or statements detrimental to a team or the league.
After his first fine, Gobert commented that players should be allowed to express their emotions, acknowledging that the game can be highly frustrating.
However, fans are pointing out a discrepancy in the league’s discipline, noting that Nuggets star Jamal Murray made a similar gesture during Game 2 of the series but did not receive any punishment.
Gobert is expected to play in Game 5 on Tuesday.
NBA’s Rudy Gobert Fined $75K for Repeated Money Gesture Towards Refs
