Luka Doncic has landed in trouble after the NBA decided to fine him $50,000 for a hand gesture he made at a referee in the game against the New York Knicks on March 8. James Jones, Executive Vice President, Head of Basketball Operations, announced the league’s decision today.
A user shared the news on X:
During the Knicks game, in the third quarter, Doncic committed a turnover and rushed back to the defense to protect the transition bucket. In an attempt to take charge of galloping Mohamed Diawara, the Slovenian guard came in front of the Knicks forward. However, the officials continued the play without an offensive foul, which led Doncic to make a “money” gesture at the referee.
Luka Doncic’s tendency to bark at officials during games has caught fans and analysts attention this season. Some have even suggested that his tussle with the officials after every other play has even downgraded his defense, as he doesn’t race back after a possession. That has even led to 15 technical fouls against him thus far in the regular season.
Luka Doncic can get one-game suspension if he gets another tech
The NBA’s rulebook says that any player who accumulates 16 technical fouls during the course of the regular season will serve an automatic one-game suspension. With 15 against Luka Doncic in the 2025-26 season, he is just one away from suspension.
The last foul against the Lakers guard came against the Denver Nuggets when he argued a no-call with an official. After the game, when the Slovenian was asked about the reason behind his 15th tech, he said:
“Just because I yelled at him, I guess. That’s what he said. But I heard three other players say the exact same sentence and didn’t get a tech. And that’s my problem, you know, I was trying not to talk at all. This is the first thing I said — no warning or nothing.”
Doncic’s interactions with referees have often led to weak defensive plays for the Lakers this season. Moreover, game officials rarely overturn a call after being pointed out.
Luka Doncic is averaging 32.5 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.4 assists this season, leading the team in points and assists. His suspension might be costly for the team if he reaches the mark in the upcoming games.
Lakers Fans Divided After Luka Doncic Again Goes Nuclear Without LeBron James
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball, and college baseball!
