The NBA has fined a Boston Celtics coach $35,000 for directing inappropriate language toward a game official during the team's recent game against the Chicago Bulls. The incident occurred at the end of the Celtics' 117-108 loss, during which the team received three technical fouls in the fourth quarter.
Following the game, the coach explained that he was simply trying to spread holiday cheer to the referee crew by wishing them a merry Christmas and happy holidays. However, video footage of the exchange does not align with this explanation.
Crew chief Tony Brothers stated that one of the technical fouls was issued to a player for questioning the integrity of an official, while another was given for an overt action towards an official. Despite the coach's claim that he was offering well wishes, the NBA deemed his behavior as aggressive and inappropriate.
Players involved in the technical fouls expressed their disagreement with the calls, with one player stating that he was penalized without reason and that the coach did not make any remarks that warranted a technical foul.
This incident highlights the importance of maintaining professionalism and respect towards officials in the NBA. The league enforces strict guidelines regarding interactions with referees to uphold the integrity of the game and ensure a fair playing environment for all teams.
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