Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia has publicly stated that suspending Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokić following their sideline altercation during Game 4 of the Western Conference Semifinals “would not be right.” The incident occurred when Suns guard Josh Okogie crashed into the stands while attempting to save a loose ball. The ball landed in Ishbia’s hands, and as Jokić reached to retrieve it, he made contact with Ishbia, resulting in a shove that sent the Suns owner back into his seat.
In the aftermath, Ishbia took to Twitter to address the situation
“Great win for the Suns last night in an amazing series so far! That should be and is the only story. Suspending or fining anyone over last night’s incident would not be right. I have a lot of respect for Jokić and don’t want to see anything like that. Excited for Game 5! Go Suns!”
Jokić defended his actions, stating, “The fan put the hand on me first. I thought the league was supposed to protect us. Maybe I am wrong. I know who he is, but he is a fan. Isn’t he?” Nuggets head coach Michael Malone also expressed his view, saying, “I think it’s crazy that Nikola got a technical foul in that situation. He’s going for the ball and some fan holds onto the ball like he wants to be a part of the game.”
The NBA issued Jokić a $25,000 fine for the incident but decided against a suspension, allowing him to play in Game 5 of the series. The league’s decision was met with support from various quarters, including analysts who agreed with Ishbia’s stance that the incident should not overshadow the series.
As the series progressed, the focus shifted back to the on-court action, with both teams aiming to advance in the playoffs.
