Houston Rockets guard Fred VanVleet has been suspended for three games by the NBA for making obscene comments and gestures towards game officials. The news was reported by Shams Charania on Twitter.
A Tweet read,
“The NBA is reportedly suspending Rockets guard Fred VanVleet for three games after making obscene comments and gestures towards game officials, sources tell ESPN.”
The NBA is reportedly suspending Rockets guard Fred VanVleet for three games after making obscene comments and gestures towards game officials, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/Q7eQIflcBy
— Sharms Charania ᶠᵃⁿ (@SharmsCharania) November 24, 2024
Fred VanVleet’s Details of the Incident
The altercation took place in the final seconds of the Rockets’ 104-98 loss to the Trail Blazers. VanVleet was called for an offensive foul on an inbounds pass, which led to his frustration boiling over. He pointed at each of the officials and made vulgar comments, resulting in a technical foul and immediate ejection. As he left the court, VanVleet nearly poked one of the officials in the face, further escalating the situation.
NBA’s Response
The NBA has a strict policy regarding player conduct towards officials, and VanVleet’s actions were deemed unacceptable. The league announced a three-game suspension for VanVleet, citing his obscene comments and gestures as the primary reasons for the disciplinary action. This suspension will cost VanVleet not only game time but also a significant amount of money in lost salary.
VanVleet’s Reaction
After the game, VanVleet acknowledged his frustration but refrained from discussing the officiating in detail. “I think I’m in enough trouble as it is tonight, so I probably don’t need to discuss too much officiating with you guys,” VanVleet said. He admitted that emotions were high and that he felt wronged by the officials’ calls, but he also recognized that his reaction was inappropriate.
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