After getting ejected in the playoffs for the first time in his career, James Harden voiced his disappointment with the officiating following the 76ers’ physical 102–97 Game 3 win over the Nets on Thursday.
Harden, appearing in his 152nd playoff game, was assessed a flagrant 2 foul and ejected after the former MVP elbowed Nets forward Royce O’Neale in the groin area in the third quarter. While discussing the officials’ decision postgame, Harden repeatedly labeled both the foul call and his ejection as “unacceptable” while explaining he felt he made a “natural” move on the play.
“I’m not labeled as a dirty player, I didn’t hit him in the private area,” Harden said. “When somebody is draped on you like that defensively, it’s just a natural basketball reaction. … For a flagrant 2, that’s unacceptable, this is a playoff game.”
Harden also told reporters he didn’t receive an explanation for the call prior to his exit, which came with Philadelphia leading, 80–76, with 13.6 seconds left in the third period. The 10-time All-Star finished the night with 21 points, five rebounds and four assists in 29 minutes.
James Harden doesn't mince words about his ejection:
— Mike Vorkunov (@MikeVorkunov) April 21, 2023
"That's unacceptable. That can't happen."
He said he didn't hit him in the privates. Miffed he got his first playoff ejection. pic.twitter.com/QB1gBLVN26
Although Harden’s ejection didn’t end up costing them the win, the 76ers obviously could’ve used his scoring prowess down the stretch in what was close and chippy contest. Thursday’s first-round matchup also saw Joel Embiid receive a flagrant 1 foul for kicking Nets center Nic Claxton, who was later ejected after receiving his second technical foul for taunting.
There has not yet been any indication that Harden could face additional punishment for his ejection, likely allowing him to return to action for Game 4. Philadelphia will look to close Brooklyn out on Saturday with a victory at Barclays Center.
