Houston Rockets star Fred VanVleet’s frustrations boiled over during the closing moments of the team’s 104-98 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers on Saturday. With 4.3 seconds left in the game, that referee handed an offensive foul to VanVleet. He was subsequently ejected after directing profane language and pointing at the referees in a heated confrontation.
VanVleet grew frustrated earlier in the game when he believed Blazers forward Toumani Camara fouled him on a three-point attempt, but the referees did not make a call. His anger escalated after receiving a foul, ultimately reaching a breaking point. He specifically directed his frustration at official John Conley, who issued the ejection.
Following the incident, the NBA announced a $50,000 fine for VanVleet, citing his use of inappropriate language and conduct toward the officials. The league has consistently maintained a strict stance on player misconduct, and this case was no exception.
Following the incident, the NBA announced a $50,000 fine for VanVleet, citing his use of inappropriate language and conduct toward the officials. The league has consistently maintained a strict stance on player misconduct, and this case was no exception.
Nevertheless, the game’s crew chief, Courtney Kirkland, admitted that the referees had made a mistake after the game. A review of the footage confirmed that VanVleet should have been awarded a foul on the three-point attempt. While acknowledging the error might provide some solace, VanVleet could not escape the financial cost of his misconduct.
Fred VanVleet Addresses Ejection After Rockets Loss
After the Houston Rockets’ tough loss to the Portland Trail Blazers, Fred VanVleet faced questions from reporters about his late-game ejection. The Rockets star kept his response measured while admitting that the heat of the moment often clouds judgment.
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“I think I’m in enough trouble as it is tonight, so I probably don’t need to discuss too much officiating with you guys. Heat of the moment, you always feel right— know the refs aren’t trying to be wrong, but we disagreed quite a bit tonight,” VanVleet said.
VanVleet played 28 minutes against the Blazers, scoring 8 points, five rebounds, and five assists. The Rockets guard is averaging 14.5 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 6.1 assists in 17 games this season.
