Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic will not be suspended due to pressure on Phoenix Suns owner Matt Ichpeia, The league announced Monday.
Instead, Jokic will be fined $25,000 for “improper contact with a seated stadium spectator.”
The following was issued by the NBA. pic.twitter.com/uMB9t5nvi4
– NBA Communications (NBAPR) May 8, 2023
Nikola Jokic attempted to recover the ball from the Suns’ owner in Game 4
Late in the second quarter, Jokic tried to recover the ball from Ishpea who was sitting in the court and caught the ball after it went out of bounds. When Ishbia did not release the ball from his hands, Jokic pushed Ishbia, causing the owner of the ball to fall.
Jokic was assessed a technical foul for his actions.
The Nuggets lost the game 129-124, tying the score at 2-2. Jokic finished with 53 points, four rebounds and 11 assists.
Nikola Jokic pushes Suns owner Matt Ishpia. đź‘€ pic.twitter.com/C3xVv4Vg4j
– Sportsnet (Sportsnet) May 8, 2023
Matt Eshpia released a statement following the incident
Following the interaction, Ichpia issued a statement on his Twitter, saying that he did not want any action, such as a suspension, to be taken against Jokic.
“Awesome win for the Suns last night in an amazing series so far! That has to be the only story.” “Suspending or fining anyone for last nights incident wouldn’t be right. I have a lot of respect for Jokic and don’t want to see anything like that. Excited for Game 5! Go suns!”
Game five will be on Tuesday, May 9 in Denver at 10 p.m. ET on TNT.
Great win for the Suns last night in an amazing series so far!
This should be the only story. Suspending or fining anyone for the past nights incident would not be right. I have a lot of respect for Jokic and I don’t want to see anything like that. Excited for Game 5! Suns go!– Matt Ishbia (@Mishbia15) May 8, 2023