What Happens If a NBA Player Hits the Ref?
Contents
We all know that NBA players are some of the most athletic people in the world. But what happens if one of them accidentally hits a referee?
The NBA’s Rule Book
The NBA has a very strict rule book when it comes to player and referee interactions. If a player hits a referee, they are automatically ejected from the game and are subject to a fine. The player may also be suspended for a certain number of games, depending on the severity of the infraction.
What the rule book says about fighting
rule 12, section 3, article 1 of the NBA rule book states that “no player shall strike an official.” However, the article goes on to say that each case will be reviewed by the league on an individual basis. In other words, if a player hits a ref in the heat of the moment and it’s determined that he didn’t mean to do it, he might not be suspended. On the other hand, if a player deliberately punches a ref, he can expect to be suspended for several games.
What the rule book says about hitting a ref
The rule book is very clear about hitting a ref. It says that any player who hits a ref will be automatically ejected from the game. If the player hits the ref with his fist or forearm, he will also be subject to a fine and/or suspension.
NBA Players Who Have Hit Refs
In the NBA, players are not allowed to hit referees. This is because referees are considered to be part of the game, and they are supposed to be respected. However, there have been a few instances where players have lost their cool and hit referees. Let’s take a look at some of those instances.
Rajon Rondo
Rajon Rondo was suspended for one game in February 2015 after hitting referee Marc Davis. The incident occurred after Davis had ejected Rondo from the game for arguing with another official. As Rondo was leaving the court, he turned and bumped Davis with his chest. He was immediately suspended without pay by the NBA.
Kobe Bryant
In February of 2004, Kobe Bryant was fined $10,000 by the NBA for elbowing Mike Reed in the face during a game. Kobe claimed that he did not see the referee and was just trying to get some space.
The Consequences
The NBA has a set of rules that players must follow. One of those rules is that players are not allowed to hit referees. If a player does hit a referee, there are a few different consequences that could happen. The player could be suspended from the game, fined, or even banned from the NBA.
Fines
If a NBA player hits a ref, the player will be immediately ejected from the game and will likely face a fine and/or suspension from the league.
Suspensions
The suspension will be determined by the commissioner, who will also decide the length and terms of the suspension. In most cases, the player will be suspended for a minimum of one game, but it could be more depending on the severity of the hit and/or any past history the player may have.
Losing Fans
The main consequence for a NBA player hitting a ref is that they will lose fans. In some cases, the player may be suspended or even banned from the NBA. This is a rare occurrence, but it has happened in the past. The most notable example is when former NBA player, Tim Thomas, punched a ref in the face during a game.
