Fred VanVleet Ejected After Profane Outburst at Referees in Rockets' Loss

The NBA star faces potential suspension and fines after a heated exchange with officials during the closing seconds of Houston's game against Portland.

• Fred VanVleet was ejected with 4.1 seconds left in the Houston Rockets' 104-98 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers following a profane tirade directed at referees.
• VanVleet's frustration stemmed from a non-call on a potential game-tying shot attempt, which officials later admitted should have been ruled a foul, though it would not have resulted in free throws.
• The Rockets guard pointed at all three officials and used explicit language, including calling them derogatory names, leading to his immediate ejection on a single technical foul.
• Video footage showed VanVleet narrowly avoiding physical contact with a referee during the incident, which could have resulted in a harsher penalty if contact had occurred.
• VanVleet, who struggled offensively during the game, now awaits an official decision from the NBA on potential suspensions and fines for his actions.

3 Articles

Bleacher Report EssentiallySports SBNation