Will the NBA fine Kyrie Irving?

The NBA has slapped a $50,000 fine on Brooklyn Nets superstar point guard Kyrie Irving for objectionable behavior during Game 1 of the team’s Eastern Conference first-round playoff series against the Boston Celtics.

According to a statement by NBA president of league operations Byron Spruell, the penalty was given “for making obscene gestures on the playing court and directing profane language toward the spectator stands.”

Kyrie Irving’s fingers and foul words

Irving flashed his middle finger at Boston fans multiple times during the game, which the Nets lost 115-114 despite his 39-point performance. He also had a verbal exchange with the fans after the game.

When asked about his behavior, he defended his actions, saying he was just giving back as good as he was getting.

“It’s nothing new when I come into this building what it’s going to be like… but it’s the same energy they have for me, I’m going to have the same energy for them,” he said.

“There’s only but so much you take as a competitor. We’re the ones who are expected to be docile and be humble, take a humble approach. F—k that, it’s the playoffs, that’s what it is.”

Irving’s bad blood with Boston

Irving has had a combative relationship with Celtics fans ever since he parted ways with the team in 2019 to sign up with the Nets as a free agent. This took place after he publicly stated that he would extend his stay with the Celtics before the 2018 season.

Since then, he has been constantly booed by Boston fans, while he once wiped his shoe on the Celtics logo on the court.

Game 2 of the Nets-Celtics playoff series will take place on Wednesday in Boston. Tip-off is at 7 p.m ET / 4 p.m. PT.