Watch: Ibaka, Chriss ejected after exchanging haymakers
Replay Review (Game Crew): player altercation in Q3 of #TORatCLE. Ruling: Technical fouls assessed to Ibaka and Chriss for fighting, both players ejected. pic.twitter.com/OzLp7FTgTS
— NBA Official (@NBAOfficial) March 12, 2019
Toronto Raptors center Serge Ibaka and Cleveland Cavaliers center Marquese Chriss had to be separated after trading punches in the third quarter of Monday's contest. Both players were ejected shortly after the altercation.
Ibaka was battling Chriss for positioning to receive a full-court pass with one second remaining in the quarter. The two locked arms and Ibaka fell as Chriss walked by while mouthing something to the Congolese big man.
The words seemingly triggered Ibaka, as he stormed toward Chriss and grabbed him by the neck before the two exchanged haymakers.
Both players will likely serve suspensions for the wrangle. Ibaka isn't new to exchanging punches with opponents.
The Cavaliers ultimately upset the Raptors 126-101.