Victor Wembanyama will not face a suspension for the elbow that led to his first career ejection, the NBA announced. The San Antonio Spurs star will be available for Game 5 of the Western Conference Semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Wembanyama was ejected from Game 4 after a flagrant 2 foul for striking Naz Reid in the face with his elbow. The incident occurred early in the second quarter. The Timberwolves went on to win the game, tying the series at two games apiece.
Spurs coach Mitch Johnson defended Wembanyama, citing the excessive physicality the 7-foot-4 star endures. Johnson stated Wembanyama must protect himself and was glad he did, but insisted there was “zero intent” to hurt Reid.
The league agreed, clearing Wembanyama for the crucial Game 5 in San Antonio on Tuesday night.