Rockets' Smith, Jazz's Dunn tossed for throwing punches
Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. and Utah Jazz guard Kris Dunn were both ejected in the second quarter Saturday after throwing punches away from the play.
Dunn grabbed Smith's jersey and appeared to say something to the 2022 third overall pick before Smith retaliated. Both players missed attempted punches as players and referees stepped in.
Jabari Smith Jr and Kris Dunn go at it. pic.twitter.com/pHD4ZaGxsB
— Oh No He Didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) March 24, 2024
The incident took place just five seconds into the frame.
Saturday's dustup isn't the first between the two this season. During Houston's 127-126 overtime win on Jan. 20, Smith and Dunn were separated after colliding on a screen set by the Jazz guard. Both players received off-setting technicals but remained in that game.
Kris Dunn and Jabari Smith get in a little Scuffle pic.twitter.com/AHWfY9WJCP
— Jazz Clips (@UtahJazzClips) January 21, 2024
The Rockets led 47-21 at the time of the incident Saturday. They won the first half 85-55.