The NBA imposed a historic fine on Minnesota Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert worth $100,000. Therefore, the biggest penalty of the season for a player who was not suspended. Gobert ended up being penalized for insinuating that referees were being influenced by sports betting after the Timberwolves’ loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers.
According to the press release issued by league vice president and chief disciplinarian Joe Dumars, the fine also included Gobert’s gesture of making the money sign with his hands toward the referees.
After receiving the penalty for his sixth foul late in the game, Gobert faced the consequences of the fine.
The player explained that his gesture reflected his sincere belief, calling it “the truth”. He expressed his opinion that although mistakes are common, sometimes there is more than simple mistakes at play. Thus, highlighting the need for improvements in arbitration.
Details about the fine imposed by the NBA
The NBA considered Gobert’s previous criticisms of referees when determining the amount of the fine. Typically, criticizing referees would result in penalties of between $10,000 and $30,000 for players.
However, the NBA fined his teammate, Anthony Edwards, $40,000 for similar criticism in January.
Although he avoided suspension, Gobert was unable to participate in the following game due to a thigh injury. With an 11-season NBA career, the 31-year-old has maintained solid averages of 13.8 points, 12.0 rebounds and 2.1 blocks per game.
Since August, when James Harden was fined $100,000 over contract issues with the Philadelphia 76ers, no player had received such a significant fine without being suspended, until the Gobert incident.
It is worth noting that suspended players also face financial penalties, with the proceeds typically going to charities supported by the NBA. These fines typically exceed US$100,000.
