Warriors’ Kuminga Fined $35K After Ejection in Preseason Game

UPDATE: The NBA has just fined Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga $35,000 following his ejection during a preseason game against the Portland Trail Blazers on July 15, 2025. This incident occurred late in the first half, igniting discussions about player conduct and officiating.

Kuminga’s ejection took place after a heated moment with official Rodney Mott, where the player clapped in Mott’s face after a controversial no-call on a drive to the basket. With only seven seconds remaining in the second quarter, Kuminga attempted a transition layup but stumbled and missed, visibly expressing his frustration before confronting the referee.

The NBA’s disciplinary action comes just two days after the game, with the league stating that Kuminga was fined for “making inappropriate contact with and continuing to pursue a game official.” This decision highlights the league’s strict policy on maintaining respect between players and officials.

Warriors head coach Steve Kerr commented on the incident, stating, “I kind of liked [the ejection], actually,” indicating that he appreciated the fire Kuminga displayed. “He was getting fouled quite a bit. It was a physical game,” Kerr added, noting that the young forward had shown promise with seven points, six rebounds, and four assists before his ejection.

Kuminga’s frustration stemmed from a perceived foul during the drive, which he later described in the postgame locker room. He expressed concern over a previous ankle injury that resurfaced when Trail Blazers forward Deni Avdija accidentally clipped his ankle during the play. “I wasn’t surprised he got ejected because he kind of got right in [Mott’s] face. You can’t do that,” Kerr remarked.

This fine comes shortly after Kuminga signed a new two-year, $46.8 million contract with the Warriors earlier this month, a deal that followed contentious negotiations. He arrived at training camp a couple of days late but has demonstrated significant improvements in his playmaking abilities during the preseason.

As the Warriors prepare for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on Kuminga as he channels his competitive spirit into constructive play. The team will look to harness this intensity while also managing his responses on the court to avoid further penalties.

Fans and analysts alike are left wondering how this incident will affect Kuminga’s performance moving forward and what steps the Warriors will take to ensure their young star remains focused. The upcoming games will undoubtedly be critical for both Kuminga and the Warriors as they aim to capitalize on his talent while navigating the challenges of the NBA season.