Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic was ejected early in the third quarter of Sunday’s 124-97 win at the Cleveland Cavaliers after being called for a flagrant foul 2.
Following a lengthy replay review, the officials ruled that Doncic made “an aggressive strike to the groin area” of Cavs guard Collin Sexton, justifying the flagrant 2 ruling. The incident occurred when Doncic and Sexton were battling for rebounding position with 10:05 remaining in the first half.
“After I saw the video, I knew I hit him, but it wasn’t nothing on purpose,” said Doncic, who had 15 points, five rebounds and five assists before being ejected. “I think that kind of stuff happens a lot in games, but I don’t know. That’s my explanation. It obviously wasn’t on purpose. It was just two guys fighting for a rebound, I guess.”
On the court, Doncic responded to the ruling with wide eyes, indicating surprise. He laughed as he exited the floor.
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Doncic said after the game that he thought the review was to determine whether his foul occurred before the shot clock violation.
“That’s what I thought they were looking at,” Doncic said. “I was really surprised when they called a flagrant 2.”
Sexton said he did not believe Doncic had any malicious intent on the play.
