Watch: Former Vols basketball star Grant Williams was controversially ejected from NBA game
Boston Celtics forward Grant Williams, a former Tennessee Vols basketball star, was controversially ejected on Monday night against the Chicago Bulls. Williams was called for a blocking foul in the fourth quarter and as he jumped off the floor in frustration, his shoulder made what I thought was accidental contact with the official. Here's the […]
Boston Celtics forward Grant Williams, a former Tennessee Vols basketball star, was controversially ejected on Monday night against the Chicago Bulls.
Williams was called for a blocking foul in the fourth quarter and as he jumped off the floor in frustration, his shoulder made what I thought was accidental contact with the official.
Williams didn't speak with reporters after the game.
Crew chief Marc Davis, however, spoke with the pool reporter after the game and said that Williams was deemed to have made intentional contact with the official as he jumped off the court.
“After it is correctly judged a blocking foul on Williams, he jumps up and approaches official [Cheryl] Flores and makes intentional physical contact with her and he is ejected as per rule for this sportsmanship act,” Davis said.
I didn't think the contact was on purpose. It looked like Williams was trying to quickly get away from the situation because he was frustrated.
But if the officials made the judgment call that it was on purpose, it's possible that Williams could face a fine and/or suspension.
It's certainly not in Williams' character to make intentional contact with an official and I think the NBA would be wise to consider that when they decide on the punishment for the former Vols basketball standout.
Featured image via David Banks-USA TODAY Sports
