The NBA announced Tuesday that Chicago Bulls guard Collin Sexton was fined $35,000 for making an inappropriate gesture (showing middle finger) during Monday’s 123-115 loss to the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center. The incident occurred with 1:31 remaining in the third quarter, NBA Executive Vice President James Jones confirmed.
Sexton scored 19 points off the bench in the contest, helping Chicago rally from a 15-point deficit in the third quarter to briefly tie the game at 89 entering the fourth. Anfernee Simons led the Bulls with 23 points, while Matas Buzelis added 18.
Brooklyn was paced by Nic Claxton’s 28 points and 10 rebounds, supported by Noah Clowney with 20 and Drake Powell contributing 14 off the bench. Rookies Danny Wolf and Nolan Traore each added 13 points to help the Nets secure a 3-1 edge over Chicago in season matchups.
The Bulls were missing key players, including Zach Collins (sprained right toe), Josh Giddey (strained left hamstring), Tre Jones (strained left hamstring), and Noe Essengue (left shoulder surgery). Brooklyn played without leading scorer Michael Porter Jr., sidelined due to right knee tendinitis, and rookie guard Egor Demin.
Chicago briefly led early in the fourth after Isaac Okoro’s free throws gave them a 93-91 advantage. The Nets responded with a 12-6 run over the next three minutes, regaining control at 103-99. Wolf’s layup and Claxton’s free throws extended Brooklyn’s lead to 115-107 with under four minutes remaining.
Both teams are scheduled to play Wednesday, with Chicago visiting Boston and Brooklyn hosting the Indiana Pacers. The Bulls currently sit 11th in the Eastern Conference with a 24-30 record, while the Nets are 13th at 15-37.
