Star player Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets will not be suspended by the NBA for the Phoenix Suns Game 5.
Jokic will be allowed to play Tuesday night in Denver with the series tied 2-2. The league said on Monday that it had fined him $25,000 for his small push of Suns owner Mat Ishbia during Game 4 while he was trying to grab the ball in the crowd.
In the second quarter of Sunday night’s Game 4, Jokic was called for a technical foul after attempting to steal the ball from Ishbia, who was seated courtside, and elbowing the Suns owner.
Ishbia addressed the incident on Twitter on Monday morning.
“The Suns’ victory last night marked the start of an incredible series! Ishbia tweeted, “That is the only story, and it should be.” “It would not be appropriate to suspend or fine anyone for what happened last night. Jokic is someone I greatly respect, so I don’t want to see anything similar. Looking forward to game 5! Suns, go!”
Suns guard Josh Okogie started the altercation by crashing into the seats while attempting to recover a loose ball. He fell in front of Ishbia, who was holding the basketball, and other supporters on the baseline.
When Jokic tried to steal the ball from Ishbia, he was doing so swiftly, presumably so the Nuggets could begin their attacking possession. Jokic’s elbow shoved Ishbia backward after the ball shot backward into the throng.
Following a game in which he finished with 53 points and 11 assists, Jokic justified his conduct.
Jokic clarified, “The fan put the hand on me first.” “I believed the league was meant to keep us safe. Perhaps I’m mistaken. I am aware of him, but he is a supporter. Is he not?
Jokic was “going to get the ball and some fan is holding on to the ball like he wants to be part of the game,” according to Nuggets coach Michael Malone.
