Gobert fined $100K for money gesture, criticizing refs
The NBA fined Minnesota Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert $100,000 for directing an "inappropriate and unprofessional gesture" toward an official as well as "publicly criticizing the officiating," the league announced Sunday.
The league took into account the Frenchman's previous criticism of referees when assessing its punishment.
The incident occurred late in the fourth quarter of Friday's 113-104 loss against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
After Gobert was called for his sixth foul, the three-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year was subsequently issued a technical foul for making a money sign gesture at a referee.
Rudy Gobert got a tech after making the money sign at the refspic.twitter.com/CQsh46CZ4Q
— Dime (@DimeUPROXX) March 9, 2024
Gobert doubled down on his actions postgame, implying that sports gambling is influencing how officials call the game.
"I'll bite the bullet again," Gobert told reporters following the loss. "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."