Overview
- Game officials reviewed the play with the NBA Replay Center and assessed Smart a flagrant‑2 for throwing a punch, which automatically ejected him from the game.
- The incident took place with 21 seconds left in the third quarter Wednesday night as Houston led, and Smart left the arena immediately after the ruling.
- Media replays and broadcasters differ on whether the punch made clear contact with Bassey, with some angles showing contact and others calling the video inconclusive.
- Under the NBA rulebook any player who throws a punch faces at least a one‑game suspension and a fine, so the league review now determines further discipline.
- Smart’s ejection removed a veteran rotation guard late in the game and could affect Houston’s short‑term lineup while the NBA completes its disciplinary decision.