Warriors’ Kuminga Fined $35,000 for Contact with Referee

Jonathan Kuminga of the Golden State Warriors has been fined $35,000 for inappropriate contact with a game official, according to an announcement from the NBA. The incident occurred during a preseason game against the Portland Trail Blazers on October 10, 2023, shortly before Kuminga was ejected from the match.

With just 0.9 seconds remaining in the first half, Kuminga drove into the lane and did not receive a foul call after being tripped by a Blazers defender. Frustrated, he confronted the referee on the baseline, leading to his immediate ejection from the game. The Warriors went on to secure a 118-111 victory, but Kuminga’s actions overshadowed his contributions on the court.

Kuminga’s ejection marked the first of his professional career. Warriors head coach Steve Kerr expressed understanding of Kuminga’s reaction, stating, “He got fouled, and it was a frustration play. I have no problem with it because he deserved the foul and he was getting fouled quite a bit.” Kerr further praised Kuminga’s performance, saying, “I love the way he played, I love the fire, the passion. I don’t mind the ejection at all. I kind of liked it, actually. I thought JK was terrific.”

In the brief time he spent on the court, Kuminga recorded seven points, six rebounds, and four assists in 17 minutes of play. His intensity and eagerness to compete have generated excitement among fans and analysts alike.

The Warriors are set to play their final preseason game at the Chase Center on October 13, 2023, against the Los Angeles Clippers. As the regular season approaches, Kuminga’s performance and temperament will be closely monitored, especially following this incident.