NBA's decision on Victor Wembanyama proves troubling double standard between stars and role players originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
After hours of speculation, Dallas Mavericks fans finally received positive news as Victor Wembanyama will not be suspended. ESPN senior NBA insider Shams Charania reported that the Spurs superstar will face no additional punishment after being ejected for elbowing Naz Reid during Sunday night’s game.
Wembanyama also avoided a fine and has officially been cleared to suit up for Game 5 against the Timberwolves on Tuesday night in San Antonio.
The ejection came as Wembanyama was fighting for an offensive rebound when Reid and Jaden McDaniels crowded him under the basket with 8:39 left in the second quarter of Game 3. The Spurs star swung his right elbow backward in frustration after absorbing heavy contact, catching Reid around the neck and jaw.
Many expected the NBA would ultimately avoid suspending Wembanyama, but ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins argued the incident could have been far more dangerous if the elbow had landed slightly higher. Before the league’s ruling became official, Perkins openly questioned whether the NBA might show favoritism toward the Spurs star.
“Do you realize if that was a little higher in his temple, we don’t know what could’ve happened,” Perkins said. “Some people texted me saying if that was higher, he could’ve possible Killed the man…. There’s no place in the game for that. All eyes our watching because if the NBA decides not to suspend him, then they’re sending a message that they prioritize views, stardom, and money over a persons well being.”
Debate around the incident is expected to continue, but the decision now gives Wembanyama a big opportunity to respond after the rough Game 3 experience in which he finished with just 4 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 fouls in 12 minutes. With the Timberwolves evening the series at 2-2, his return is expected to play a huge role in shifting momentum back toward San Antonio.
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