During the fourth game, Jokic and Ishbia got into a fight with each other.
Despite a thrilling Game 4 conclusion between the Nuggets and the Phoenix Suns on Sunday, the night headline was an argument between Nikola Jokic and Suns owner Mat Ishbia. Jokic was awarded a technical foul for shoving Ishbia while attempting to collect a ball that the Suns owner was hanging onto.
While there was considerable suspicion that Jokic might be punished for Game 5, the NBA announced on Monday that he would not be. The two-time MVP will be fined $25,000 for the altercation.
The strange incident occurred in the second quarter when Suns guard Josh Okogie flew into the front row to prevent a ball from going out of bounds. Jokic walked over to Okogie and the ball to try to set up a 5-on-4 fast break for Denver, but the ball was in the hands of Ishbia.
The Sun’s owner refused to give the ball to Jokic, and as he reached for it, he shoved Ishbia, prompting a supporter to shove Jokic back. Denver lost the game when the Nuggets’ superstar was called for a technical foul.
This Is How Nikola Jokic Reacts on the Suns Owner Mat Ishbia
The Nuggets didn’t hold back their criticism of Ishbia’s performance after the game. Aaron Gordon described the event as “super lame.” Jokic’s technical foul was deemed “crazy” by Nuggets head coach Michael Malone. Jokic questioned the league’s ability to keep players safe from hostile spectators.
“The fan put their hand on me first,” Jokic stated. Perhaps I am mistaken, but I thought the league was there to safeguard us. And so it goes. When pressed further, he admitted that he recognized the fan in question but that it didn’t matter either way. “I recognize him, but he must be a fan, right? He must be a supporter if he’s sitting on the court.
Jokic’s Altercation With Suns Owner Resolved: No Suspension but Fined and the Game 5 Awaits
That doesn’t rule out the possibility that whoever he is could impact the game by holding the ball, even if he’s only a spectator. In the end, Jokic decided that it was Ishbia who deserved punishment. Say that with me now: “He’s a fan. He’s supposed to get kicked out if he’s influencing the game.”
The two teams can put this episode behind them and concentrate on moving forward in the playoffs now that a decision has been reached. The Suns fought back from a 2-0 series deficit by winning two straight on their home court. Now, the Nuggets can reply with Game 5 set to take place in Denver on Tuesday. The Nuggets can rest easy knowing their best player won’t miss any time, thanks to the announcement that Jokic will not be suspended.
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