Victor Wembanyama was ejected from Game 4 [1] of the Western Conference semifinals on Sunday after receiving a flagrant-2 foul [1].
The incident marks the first career ejection for the San Antonio Spurs star [3]. His absence proved pivotal as the Minnesota Timberwolves rallied to win the game 114-109 [2], leveling the playoff series at 2-2 [2].
The ejection occurred at the Target Center in Minneapolis [2]. Officials assessed the flagrant-2 foul after Wembanyama's elbow struck Timberwolves forward Naz Reid above the neck and jaw [1, 3]. The contact happened while Wembanyama was contesting a rebound [1, 3].
Because a flagrant-2 foul carries an automatic ejection, Wembanyama was forced to leave the court immediately [1]. The loss of the Spurs' primary defensive presence allowed Minnesota to secure the victory and tie the series [2].
This physical encounter comes at a critical juncture in the postseason. With the series now tied 2-2 [2], both teams head into the next phase of the semifinals with equal footing. The league typically reviews flagrant-2 fouls to determine if further disciplinary action or a suspension is warranted, though no official ruling has been announced yet [5].
“The incident marks the first career ejection for the San Antonio Spurs star.”
The ejection of a franchise cornerstone during a high-stakes playoff series creates a significant tactical void for the Spurs. Beyond the immediate loss of Game 4, the potential for a league-mandated suspension following a flagrant-2 foul could leave San Antonio shorthanded for the next contest, shifting the momentum of the series in favor of Minnesota.
