Minnesota Timberwolves star Rudy Gobert is expected to face consequences from the NBA after making a money gesture towards an official, hinting at corruption
In a game that ended in a 113-104 overtime defeat to the Cleveland Cavaliers, Gobert was penalized with a technical foul for the gesture aimed at referee Scott Foster, suggesting a bribe.
After being ejected from the game for his sixth foul, Gobert did not leave immediately. Instead, he made the controversial gesture while Foster was walking towards the scorer’s table. Although Foster did not notice, official Natalie Sago did and issued the technical foul.
Gobert, known for his forthrightness, acknowledged his action post-game and voiced concerns over sports betting affecting game outcomes.
“I’ll bite the bullet again,” Gobert said. “I’ll be the bad guy. I’ll take the fine, but I think it’s hurting our game. I know the betting and all that is becoming bigger and bigger, but it shouldn’t feel that way.”
The NBA is expected to review Gobert’s conduct, with a fine and suspension being possible outcomes. His technical foul played a part in the Cavaliers’ ability to tie the game. Minnesota’s assistant coach, Micah Nori, expressed disapproval of Gobert’s actions, emphasizing the need for composure.
“A technical foul with 27 seconds in the game, to be honest, is unacceptable,” Nori said. “That’s who Rudy is, but you’ve got to be smart. He made a visual that was automatic. He was obviously frustrated — both teams were — but we have to be smarter.”
Acknowledging his mistake, Gobert admitted his reaction was ill-timed and detrimental to his team.
“My reaction, which I think was the truth, but it wasn’t the time to react that way,” Gobert said. “It cost my team the game. It was an immature reaction.”
Gobert also criticized the overall performance of the officiating crew during the game.
“It’s not just one call,” Gobert said. “Everyone makes mistakes, but when it’s over and over and over again, of course it’s frustrating.”
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