Wembanyama Ejected for Flagrant 2 Foul in Game 4 vs Timberwolves

Victor Wembanyama was ejected from Game 4 after a Flagrant 2 foul, a first in his career. This ejection happened early in the game and impacted the Spurs' performance.
By Newsroom | Basketball, NBA |

Flagrant 2 Foul Halts Star's Night in Game 4

Victor Wembanyama was removed from Sunday's Game 4 matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves for the first time in his NBA career. The ejection stemmed from a Flagrant 2 foul, assessed after Wembanyama elbowed Naz Reid in the jaw and neck area early in the second quarter. The incident occurred shortly after Wembanyama secured a rebound.

The call led to Reid making two free throws, giving the Timberwolves a four-point lead at the time. Wembanyama finished his brief appearance with four points, four rebounds, and three fouls in 13 minutes of play. The Minnesota Timberwolves ultimately won the game, 114-109, leveling the playoff series at two games apiece.

Spurs coach Mitch Johnson expressed a complex reaction to the situation, stating he was "glad he took matters into his own hands" regarding how opponents are allowed to play against Wembanyama. Johnson described the rough play Wembanyama faces as "disgusting" and questioned the officials' leniency towards such actions, though he did not condone the elbow itself. Wembanyama, after being escorted from the court, high-fived teammates and staff on the bench. He did not speak to the media following the game, reportedly remaining in the locker room.

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This marks a significant moment in the Western Conference semifinals. Reid, who had a strong previous outing with 39 points, contributed 15 points and nine rebounds in this game. The series is now tied, with the next game carrying added weight after this disruption. The league's review of the play for any potential suspension is expected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why was Victor Wembanyama ejected from Game 4 against the Timberwolves?
Victor Wembanyama was ejected after receiving a Flagrant 2 foul for elbowing Naz Reid in the jaw and neck area early in the second quarter. This was the first ejection of his NBA career.
Q: How did Wembanyama's ejection affect the game?
The foul led to two free throws for Naz Reid, and Wembanyama was removed from the game, finishing with 4 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 fouls in 13 minutes. The Minnesota Timberwolves won the game 114-109, tying the series 2-2.
Q: What did Coach Mitch Johnson say about the ejection and rough play?
Coach Mitch Johnson expressed frustration with how opponents play against Wembanyama, calling it 'disgusting' and questioning officials' leniency, though he did not condone the elbow itself. He seemed to imply it was a reaction to rough treatment.
Q: What happens next in the playoff series?
The playoff series between the Spurs and Timberwolves is now tied at two games apiece. The next game will be crucial, and the NBA is expected to review the play for any potential suspension for Wembanyama.