 |
Robin Lopez of the Phoenix Suns has been suspended one game without pay for improper conduct towards a game official, it was announced today by Stu Jackson, NBA Executive Vice President Basketball Operations.
The incident, in which Lopez made contact with an official, occurred with 8:14 remaining in the second quarter of the Suns’ 99-96 loss to the Toronto Raptors at U.S. Airways Center in Phoenix, Ariz. on Jan. 24.
According to the Arizona Republic Suns blog, “Lopez’s temper was stoked when he missed a post-up attempt against Toronto’s Andrea Bargnani and felt he was fouled on the play. Lopez raced back on defense and needlessly reach in to foul big man Linas Kleiza about 40 feet from the basket before turning his ire and glare toward Mott. A time out whistle stopped play. As Lopez walked toward the Suns bench, he brushed Mott with his left shoulder as Mott backed away. Lopez did not appear to make an attempt to avoid Mott, who then ejected Lopez. The three game officials had a brief conference and the decision stood.”
Lopez will serve his suspension Friday when the Suns visit the Portland Trail Blazers.
