Golden State Warriors point guard Shaun Livingston was recently at the center of one of the most controversial ejections of the 2017-18 NBA season. The veteran guard was protesting a no-call when he and referee Courtney Kirkland literally bumped heads during the game.
Livingston was ejected soon thereafter and he was since handed down a one-game suspension. According to Anthony Slater of The Athletic, the Warriors reserve takes full responsibility for his part in the confrontation.
“It is what it is. Unfortunate it happened. They got a standard to protect. It shouldn't have happened at the end of the day. Not one of my proudest moments. Just want to put it behind me. Apologize for it, because it is not really in my character. Emotions of the game, you know, got heated.”
Shaun Livingston was not the only one to get punished. Kirkland has also been removed from the officiating rotation for one week following his actions as well.
Needless to say, it was a defining case regarding the interactions between players and referees. Up to this point, NBA officials were making headlines for their frequent ejections of the game's biggest superstars. However, the league has made it clear that both parties will be held accountable for their actions moving forward.
Follow Us
Subscribe