NBA: Pacers player, coach fined for criticizing refs
Indiana Pacers forward Paul George (13) drives on Detroit Pistons guard Reggie Jackson during the first half of an NBA basketball game on Jan. 2, 2016, in Indianapolis. AP FILE
NEW YORK, United States — The NBA fined Indiana Pacers forward Paul George and head coach Nate McMillan on Wednesday over their comments criticizing league officials in the wake of the team’s loss to Chicago on Monday.
George, who was fined $15,000, was anticipating such a move even as he voice his frustration after the game.
“I’ve been fined multiple times,” George said, but went on to say he believes the Pacers don’t get the benefit of the doubt on foul calls.
“Since I’ve been in this jersey we’ve always fought this battle,” George said. “Maybe the league has teams they like so they can give them the benefit of the doubt. We’re the little brother of the league. We’re definitely the little brother of the league.”
George finished the game with 14 points, but he and McMillan were both irked that the Pacers star went to the free throw line just once.
“They’ve got to give us more respect,” a steamed McMillan said after the game in remarks that brought a $10,000 fine.
“Paul shot one free throw the entire game, played 39 minutes. This is the second game where he’s getting a lot of grabbing, a lot of holding.
“They (opponents) are getting away with a lot of grabbing on Paul. They (officials) have got to call the game both ways.”
The fines were announced in a statement Wednesday from NBA executive vice president Kiki VanDeWeghe. CBB
