According to ESPN insider Shams Charania, San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama will not face any additional punishment, such as a suspension or fine, for elbowing Naz Reid in the throat during Game 4. He is cleared to play in the decisive Game 5 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
In the second quarter of Game 4, Wembanyama was trapped in a double-team by Jaden McDaniels and Naz Reid. Frustrated by persistent jersey grabs and hand checks, he swung his elbow and struck Reid in the throat, resulting in a Flagrant 2 foul and immediate ejection.
Wembanyama’s ejection proved to be a turning point in San Antonio’s narrow Game 4 loss. Following a review, the NBA has decided not to issue any further penalties for the incident.
With this ruling, Wembanyama will be available for Game 5 on Tuesday, May 13 at 8:00 PM ET, where the Spurs will host the Timberwolves. The series is tied 2-2, making it a crucial matchup for both teams.
As the anchor of San Antonio’s defense and a vital piece of their offensive system, Wembanyama’s presence gives the Spurs a significant advantage as they aim to take a 3-2 series lead at home.