Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid was ejected from his team’s 111-106 victory against the San Antonio Spurs after confronting a referee.
Embiid was fouled for the third time by referee Jenna Schroeder when she fouled Victor Wembanyama, knocking the Frenchman to the floor with two minutes and 59 seconds left in the first half.
The 76ers player disputed the call with Schroeder and then had to be restrained by the official as he tore off his protective mask and continued his protests, leading to two technical fouls and an exit from the game.
Earlier, Schroeder’s decision to dismiss Philadelphia’s Andre Drummond for two technical fouls following a challenge on Wembanyama was overturned.
“It was a wild first half,” 76ers coach Nick Nurse said.
Tyrese Maxey produced 32 points, 10 rebounds and eight assists to inspire Philadelphia to victory, while Wembanyama managed 26 points, nine rebounds and eight blocked shots.
Elsewhere, the reigning NBA champions Boston Celtics, who led by 15 points at halftime, suffered a 108-104 defeat by the Orlando Magic.
Tristan da Silva scored a team-high 18 points for Orlando against a Celtics team that lost Jayson Tatum, who was restless.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander impressed as he scored 41 points to help the Western Conference leaders Oklahoma City Thunder to a 123-105 win against the Washington Wizards.
