Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard isn’t known for being a man of many words, and apparently, the officials from Wednesday’s game between L.A. and the Phoenix Suns agree. Leonard was assessed the fifth technical foul of his career during the team’s 131–122 win and after the game, he revealed what was said to the official.
“I’ll probably get it back because I didn’t cuss or anything at the ref. I just said, ‘Come on,’” Leonard said, per Tomer Azarly of ClutchPoints.
Kawhi Leonard on his 5th career technical foul last night:
— Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) January 4, 2024
"I'll probably get it back because I didn't cuss or anything at the ref. I just said, 'come on.'"pic.twitter.com/85IZ0v2rVY
Leonard being hit with a technical for tossing out a “come on” is surprising, but considering he’s rarely seen showing frustration toward the referees, it had to catch the official off guard.
Regardless, if it’s confirmed Leonard did only say this, which appears to be the case in the video above, it’d be a bit surprising if the NBA opted not to overturn the technical foul. It’s also a safe bet that fans won’t see much more than this from Leonard when it comes to addressing the officials on a normal basis.