Utah Jazz guard Kris Dunn and Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. have been handed suspensions by the NBA following their altercation during a game the previous night, resulting in Dunn receiving a two-game suspension and Smith being suspended for one game.
In a statement, NBA head of basketball operations Joe Dumars explained that Dunn’s suspension stemmed from “initiating an altercation and throwing a punch” at Smith, who received a one-game suspension for his involvement in the fight.
According to their contracts, Dunn will forfeit $35,678 for his two-game suspension, while Smith will lose $53,601.
Jabari Smith Jr. (Via NBA/Twitter)
The incident occurred five seconds into the second quarter of Houston’s 147-119 victory at home, leading to both players being ejected from the game.
The altercation unfolded after Dunn and Smith became entangled while the ball was in play.
The situation was quickly diffused by players and officials before it could escalate further, with both players receiving technical fouls for their involvement.
Kris Dunn and Jabari Smith Jr. (Via NBA/Twitter)
Despite the confrontation, none of the punches thrown made contact.
Reflecting on the incident, Dunn stated, “We exchanged a couple of words, a couple of pushes, and the next thing you know, we’re ejected.”
As a result of the suspensions, Dunn will miss games against the Dallas Mavericks and the San Antonio Spurs, while Smith will serve his suspension during the game against the Portland Trail Blazers.
