The NBA has its fair share of brawls and issues between the players, but over the past years, there has been an increased number of altercations between the NBA officials and the players. Of course, referees are criticised in every sport, but according to the NBA players, this time, it’s getting out of hand.
The NBA officials, with their unreasonable calls and ejections, have caused frustration for both the players and the coaching staff, so much so that the players have started to throw different signs or gestures at the referees as a sign of protest against the unfair calls by them.
What do the money gestures at refs mean?
Lately, NBA players have made money gestures towards the referees throughout the season to show their frustration and dissatisfaction with the foul call. These signs act as a protest, implicating that the officials are biased towards the opposing team and are being paid to do so. Not only the players but also the fans are opinionated about the fact that the officials are making unfair calls and are biased towards one side.
The league typically frowns upon these hand gestures or signs and may deem them to be misconduct, which could result in technical fouls, penalties, or even suspension. The league doesn’t promote such actions and expects the players to handle the frustration constructively.
In recent events, players like Luka Doncic, Trae Young, and Rudy Gobert, were fined for making money signs towards referees.
Rudy Gobert fined $100K for money sign at refs
The NBA issued a fine of $100,000 in the name of the Minnesota Timberwolves Center, Rudy Gobert after the Timberwolves lost to the Cavs on Friday night. Gobert made the money gesture towards a referee during clutch time, which led to a technical foul issued against him and resulted in a game-tying free throw by the Cavs.
Gobert later said that it would’ve been better for him if he kept his cool, as his reaction cost them the match. He said, “My reaction, which I think was the truth, but it wasn’t the time to react that way, It cost my team the game. It was an immature reaction.” in the post-game interview.
Gobert was lucky to not get suspended for his actions, as the Timberwolves are already bruised by the unavailability of Karl Anthony Towns, who is out indefinitely after he tore his meniscus. Despite a clear playoff spot, the Timberwolves cannot afford to lose the three-time Defensive Player of the Year at this crucial time.
