The NBA has slapped a hefty fine on Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch following a dramatic on-court outburst that led to his ejection during a crucial Friday night clash. The league announced a $35,000 penalty for Finch's use of inappropriate language towards game officials and for failing to leave the court promptly after being thrown out of the game.
The Explosive Ejection That Sparked the Fine
The incident unfolded at the Target Centre during the Timberwolves' high-profile match against the Western Conference-leading Oklahoma City Thunder. With just 6:19 remaining in the first quarter, Finch's frustration boiled over after a series of non-calls by the officiating crew. The final straw came when Wolves player Julius Randle attempted a layup, lost the ball after apparent contact near the rim, and no foul was whistled.
An incensed Finch threw his hands up in exasperation and stormed onto the court to confront the referees. Play was stopped as he continued to voice his displeasure. He was initially assessed a technical foul for pursuing referee John Butler. The situation escalated rapidly, leading to a second technical, an automatic ejection, and a full-blown confrontation that required intervention.
Staff Intervention and a Rousing Send-Off
The scene turned chaotic as the sixth-year coach, still berating officials, had to be physically restrained. Four Minnesota Timberwolves staff members stepped in to hold Finch back and guide him off the playing surface. In a defiant move, Finch initially turned back towards the official instead of heading to the bench, leading to a further struggle.
The home crowd at Target Centre, sharing their coach's frustration with the officiating, roared in support. Finch was met with a mixture of loud cheers and jeers as he was eventually escorted towards the locker room, his departure becoming a major spectacle within the game.
A Gritty Victory Amidst the Drama
Despite the early-game turmoil, the Timberwolves rallied to secure a significant 112-107 victory over the top-ranked Thunder. Star player Anthony Edwards, recently returned from injury, led the charge with a strong double-double of 26 points and 12 rebounds. This result handed the Oklahoma City Thunder, who started the season an impressive 24-1, their second loss in three games.
The win held extra weight for Minnesota, who were defeated by the Thunder in the previous season's Western Conference finals. The Thunder, now 25-3, have faced recent scrutiny over perceptions of receiving favorable calls during their dominant run. This gritty home win for the Timberwolves, punctuated by their coach's fiery protest, sends a strong message to the league's elite.
