Victor Wembanyama was ejected for the first time in his NBA career after an elbow on Naz Reid, as the Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the San Antonio Spurs to tie their playoff series.
The incident occurred during Sunday’s game, with the series now level at 2-2 following the Timberwolves’ 114-109 victory.
Wembanyama’s Ejection and Reaction
Wembanyama was initially whistled for an offensive foul after striking Reid in the jaw and neck. Reid, along with teammate Jaden McDaniels, had swarmed Wembanyama outside the paint after he rebounded a missed three-pointer by the Spurs.
Following a video review, the foul was upgraded to a Flagrant 2 for excessive contact above the neck, resulting in an automatic ejection. Fans at Minnesota’s Target Center chanted, “Kick him out! Kick him out!” during the review.
Upon hearing the penalty, Wembanyama reportedly asked teammate Harrison Barnes: “What does that mean?”
After slapping hands with his Spurs teammates while leaving the court to Michael Jackson’s Beat It!, Reid made both free throws, giving the Timberwolves a 38-34 lead.
Coaches’ Perspectives
Spurs coach Mitch Johnson, while not condoning Wembanyama’s actions, suggested that referees need to provide more protection for the player. “He’s going to have to protect himself if [the referees] are not … It’s disgusting. I just think that the amount of physicality that people play with him at some level you have to protect yourself,” Johnson said.
Johnson also stated he felt Wembanyama should be allowed to play in the next game, saying, “There was zero intent. I think it would be ridiculous [to punish him further].”
Game 4 Performance
Wembanyama finished the game with four points, four rebounds, and three fouls in 13 minutes. Despite Wembanyama’s ejection, the Timberwolves did not fully capitalise on his absence. They have a tendency of losing their edge when an opponent’s star player is missing.
Anthony Edwards led Minnesota with 36 points, 16 of which came in the fourth quarter. Reid contributed 15 points and nine rebounds.
- Wembanyama ejected for Flagrant 2 foul
- Timberwolves win 114-109, series tied 2-2
- Edwards scores 36 for Minnesota
Looking Ahead
San Antonio will host Game 5 on Tuesday. Wembanyama’s status will be determined by the NBA on Monday, with the league having the option to fine or suspend him.