San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama has escaped further disciplinary action for his elbow incident, clearing the way for him to play in Game 5 of the Western Conference semifinals.
The NBA league office announced on Tuesday that Wembanyama will not face any additional penalties after reviewing the play from Game 4 against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
During the second quarter of Monday’s matchup, with 8 minutes and 39 seconds left, the 7-foot-4 center grabbed an offensive rebound and swung his elbow, striking Minnesota’s Naz Reid in the jaw. Officials deemed the contact unnecessary and excessive, calling a Flagrant 2 foul and ejecting Wembanyama.
Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson defended his player: “Wembanyama endures aggressive physical contact every game. He didn’t intentionally use his elbow; he was reacting to provocation from opponents.”
Without Wembanyama, San Antonio fell 114-109, tying the series at 2-2. Now, with the rookie sensation cleared to play, the Spurs will host Game 5 at Frost Bank Center on Wednesday. The series remains wide open as both teams battle for a spot in the conference finals.
Wembanyama’s presence will be critical for San Antonio as they look to regain momentum at home.
