The NBA has slapped Dillon Brooks with a $25,000 fine after the Houston Rockets guard/forward delivered a punch to the groin of Indiana Pacers center Daniel Theis. The incident occurred during a preseason game on October 10, with the league announcing the punishment on Thursday.
Key Takeaway
Dillon Brooks has been fined $25,000 by the NBA for recklessly making contact with Daniel Theis in the groin area during a preseason game. The incident has raised concerns about Brooks’ behavior and the impact it may have on his future with the Houston Rockets.
The Incident
During the game, while guarding Pacers guard Bennedict Mathurin, Brooks swung his left arm at Theis who was setting a screen. The blow connected, leaving Theis in visible pain as he hunched over and later knelt down on the court. The entire incident was captured live on the broadcast.
As a result of his actions, Brooks received a flagrant foul and was promptly ejected from the game. The NBA’s Executive VP and Head of Basketball Operations, Joe Dumars, stated, “Houston Rockets guard-forward Dillon Brooks has been fined $25,000 for recklessly making contact with Indiana Pacers center Daniel Theis in the groin area.”
Brooks’ Future with the Rockets
This unfortunate incident casts a shadow over Dillon Brooks’ start with the Houston Rockets. After a troublesome 2022-2023 season with the Memphis Grizzlies, Brooks signed a lucrative 4-year, $80 million contract with the Rockets. The fine serves as a reminder that such behavior will not be tolerated in the NBA.
Coach’s Perspective
Rockets’ head coach, Ime Udoka, addressed the incident, expressing his appreciation for Brooks’ aggressive playstyle and physicality. However, Udoka emphasized the need to monitor such actions better, acknowledging that reputations carry weight in the NBA. He added, “People will look for certain things.”
The Rockets’ season opener is scheduled to take place in less than two weeks, providing Brooks with an opportunity to redeem himself on the court. It remains to be seen how this incident will impact his future performance and standing within the league.
