In a moment that quickly went viral and drew the attention of the league office, Bulls guard Collin Sexton has been fined $35,000 for making an inappropriate gesture during Monday night’s game against the Brooklyn Nets.
The incident happened late in the third quarter, with 1:31 on the clock. After missing the first of two free throws, Sexton knocked down the second. But as the Nets prepared to inbound the ball, Sexton turned his gaze to the rim and flashed a middle finger - a move the NBA deemed conduct detrimental to the league.
It was only Sexton’s second game in a Bulls uniform after being traded from Charlotte last week, but it didn’t take long for him to make headlines - for both his play and his actions. On the court, Sexton was solid, finishing with 21 points and five rebounds in 32 minutes. His energy and scoring punch were evident, even as Chicago fell 123-115 to Brooklyn.
While the $35K fine might raise eyebrows, it’s a drop in the bucket compared to Sexton’s $18.975 million salary this season. Still, it’s a reminder that the league keeps a close eye on player conduct - especially when emotions run high.
Sexton is set to hit free agency at the end of the season, and while this moment may not define his time in Chicago, it certainly adds a layer to his early days with the Bulls.