Chris Finch Fined $35K After Heated Ejection, But Wolves Rally to Beat Thunder
Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch was hit with a $35,000 fine following his ejection during Friday’s 112-107 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder. The NBA announced the penalty on Sunday, citing Finch’s use of inappropriate language directed at game officials and his failure to promptly leave the court after being tossed.
The incident unfolded early - just six minutes into the game - when Finch erupted over a string of no-calls that didn’t sit well with him. His frustration boiled over into a heated exchange with the referees, earning him two quick technicals and an early exit. Even after the ejection, Finch didn’t back down, continuing to voice his displeasure before being escorted off the court by assistants and security.
It was a fiery moment, and one that could’ve easily derailed the Timberwolves. Instead, it seemed to ignite them.
Despite losing their head coach before the first quarter was even halfway through, Minnesota pulled together and delivered one of their most resilient wins of the season - snapping a two-game skid and taking down the defending champion Thunder in the process.
Anthony Edwards led the charge with a strong all-around performance, finishing with 26 points, 12 rebounds, and three assists. Julius Randle added 19 points, eight boards, and five assists of his own, helping steady the team in Finch’s absence.
After the game, Finch addressed the situation with a mix of candor and conviction.
“I definitely wanted to make my point,” Finch said. “I thought that early on, the tone was being set in the wrong direction.”
He continued, “Just wanted to set about trying to change things. All credit to the guys.
They really responded. Picked up the pieces.
Staff did an incredible job of navigating that game. Most important is we got the win and our guys responded.”
The win marked Minnesota’s first over the Thunder in three tries this season - and it came under chaotic circumstances. But if anything, it showed this Timberwolves team has the kind of toughness and unity that can carry them through adversity.
Now, they’ll look to build on the momentum as they prepare for a home matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks on Sunday.