Rockets’ Smart ejected for throwing punch. Warriors player calls it ‘fake toughness’
The New York Times • • sports
Key Points:
- The NBA suspended Houston Rockets guard Marcus Smart for three games after he threw a punch at Golden State Warriors center Charles Bassey during a game on Wednesday night.
- The altercation occurred late in the third quarter following a face-to-face confrontation, leading to Smart's ejection after officials assessed a Flagrant 2 foul for contact with Bassey’s nose.
- Bassey criticized Smart’s behavior as "fake toughness" and accused him of playing dirty throughout the game, while Warriors teammates emphasized their support for Bassey and team unity.
- Warriors forward Georges Niang expressed shock at the incident but suggested that emotions and personal issues can sometimes lead to such outbursts, noting his personal respect for Smart.
- Smart finished the game with six points and two rebounds in 17 minutes before being ejected and subsequently suspended.
