Wembanyama Ejected for First Time as Timberwolves Fight Back to Level Series

Victor Wembanyama experienced the first ejection of his NBA career during the San Antonio Spurs’ playoff clash against the Minnesota Timberwolves after officials assessed him with a flagrant foul two penalty.

The incident occurred in the second quarter with Minnesota leading 36-34 and 8:39 remaining on the clock. Wembanyama had just secured an offensive rebound when he became entangled with Timberwolves players Jaden McDaniels and Naz Reid. As the French star turned to create space, his raised elbow struck Reid in the jaw.

Officials immediately called a foul and reviewed the play before upgrading it to a flagrant two for unnecessary and excessive contact, resulting in an automatic ejection. The 22-year-old appeared confused by the decision at first and reportedly asked teammate Harrison Barnes for clarification after the ruling was announced.

Before leaving the court, Wembanyama acknowledged his teammates with handshakes and high-fives as he headed to the locker room.

Despite losing their star player, the Spurs still managed to hold an eight-point advantage early in the fourth quarter. However, Minnesota mounted a late comeback to secure victory and tie the best-of-seven playoff series at 2-2.

Wembanyama, who had dominated Game Three with 39 points, finished the night with four points and four rebounds before his early exit.

Spurs coach Mitch Johnson defended his young center after the game, insisting the elbow was not intentional but rather a reaction to the intense physical play from Minnesota defenders.

Johnson argued that Wembanyama consistently faces heavy contact without enough protection from officials.

“The amount of physicality teams use against him is extreme,” Johnson said. “At some point, a player naturally tries to protect himself. He rarely complains, and neither do we, but situations like this can happen when the physicality goes unchecked.”

The NBA could still review the incident further and decide on additional disciplinary action, including a fine or suspension. Johnson, however, dismissed the possibility of further punishment, calling it “ridiculous.”

The series now shifts back to San Antonio for a crucial Game Five on Tuesday.