During the Mavericks’ 101-90 Game 3 win over the Clippers on Friday night, a couple of heated confrontations in the fourth quarter led to two ejections and a surge in P.J. Washington’s local popularity.
With six minutes remaining in the fourth quarter and the Clippers behind by 16 points, Westbrook grabbed Doncic’s arm as he drove past him, causing Doncic to spin out of control. Doncic then approached Westbrook, prompting the Clippers guard to push him aside. Washington intervened by pushing Westbrook from behind, escalating the situation. Westbrook then forcefully shoved Washington in the chest before being restrained, even attempting to push away an official.
Russell Westbrook going at it with Luka Doncic and PJ Washington pic.twitter.com/hatWxTVi8Z
— Beastbrook (@Beastbr00k0) April 27, 2024
Westbrook’s actions warranted two technical fouls, resulting in his automatic ejection. Washington also received a technical foul, his second of the game, leading to his removal from the court.
The altercation followed a flagrant foul by Westbrook in the second quarter, where he struck Mavericks forward Josh Green in the head during a dunk attempt.
Russell Westbrook has been charged with a flagrant foul on Josh Green. #MFFL | @dallasmavs on @BallySports 📺 pic.twitter.com/rsMbvXcwti
— Bally Sports Southwest (@BallySportsSW) April 27, 2024
After the foul, Westbrook appeared to scream obscenities at the America Airlines Center crowd.
The NBA is expected to review both the flagrant foul and the incident leading to Westbrook’s ejection, possibly resulting in further fines or suspensions.
At the time of his ejection, Westbrook had scored only one point on 0-for-7 shooting. He contributed defensively with two blocks and a steal, alongside three rebounds and one assist. Doncic led the Mavericks with 22 points, 10 rebounds, and nine assists, while Washington added 10 points, five rebounds, and three steals.
