Timberwolves' Gobert Slapped with $75,000 Fine for Money Gesture

Minnesota Timberwolves' center Rudy Gobert has been fined $75,000 for his money-sign gesture aimed at the officials during Game 4 of the Wolves' second-round series against the Denver Nuggets. The NBA announced the penalty on Tuesday.

Joe Dumars, the NBA's executive vice president and head of basketball operations, characterized Gobert's actions as "an unprofessional gesture that raises concerns about the league's integrity and its game officials." Dumars further stated that the fine takes into consideration Gobert's history of misconduct towards game officials.

Gobert, addressing the NBA's decision, expressed minimal surprise, stating, "Not surprised."

Regarding the gesture, Gobert clarified, "There was no message. Just emotions. I got to control my emotions. It was a very physical game, an emotional game. So I got to control my emotions."

This is not the first time Gobert has faced financial penalties for such behavior. Earlier in the season, he was fined $100,000 for a similar gesture directed at referee Scott Foster during a game against the Cleveland Cavaliers in March.

Following the previous incident, Gobert hinted at the impact of the league's gambling partnerships on the integrity of the game. "I'll bite the bullet again," Gobert told reporters. "I'll be the bad guy. I'll take the fine, but I think it's hurting our game. I know the betting and all that is becoming bigger and bigger, but it shouldn't feel that way."

The Western Conference semifinals series between the Wolves and the Nuggets is currently tied 2-2 as they head into Game 5.

Gobert's performance in the series has seen him average 7.7 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks across three games.