The NBA has imposed a $100,000 fine on Minnesota Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert following his comments regarding referee Scott Foster and the potential impact of gambling on game outcomes. This penalty, the maximum allowable under the current collective bargaining agreement, mirrors the fine levied against former Philadelphia 76ers guard James Harden for his trade demand last year.
The incident leading to Gobert's fine occurred during the Timberwolves' recent game against the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he received a technical foul for making a money gesture towards Foster in the closing moments of regulation. Gobert's subsequent remarks expressed concern over the fairness of officiating and the growing influence of betting on NBA games.
In response to Gobert's actions, the NBA cited his inappropriate gesture towards the official and public criticism of officiating as grounds for the fine. Joe Dumars, NBA's executive vice president for basketball operations, emphasized that the penalty also considers Gobert's history of detrimental conduct related to public criticism of referees.
This marks the fourth instance in which Gobert has been fined for publicly disparaging officials. Despite his significant salary of $41 million for the current season, the NBA has taken a firm stance against behavior that undermines the integrity of the game.
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