Desmond Bane Fined for Unsportsmanlike Conduct

The Orlando Magic’s Desmond Bane has received a significant fine after an incident during a game against the New York Knicks, where the Magic lost 106-100. The NBA reported that Bane was fined $35,000 for “throwing the ball forcefully at an opponent in an unsportsmanlike manner.” This action led to a technical foul being assessed against him.

Bane, at 27 years old, faced this penalty after he launched the ball at Knicks forward OG Anunoby following a play in the fourth quarter. Anunoby had been going for a layup but was knocked down as he attempted it, a situation that prompted Bane to throw the ball—aiming for Anunoby but perhaps crossing the line of sportsmanship. Anunoby, understandably upset, got up and pushed Bane in response.

Interestingly, this isn’t the first time this season that Bane has found himself in the spotlight for a similar action. Earlier in November, during a game against the Atlanta Hawks, he was also involved in an incident where he hit the ball away from another player after committing a foul. In that situation, he was penalized for both a technical and a flagrant foul, resulting in his ejection.

After the recent game where tensions flared, Bane and Anunoby seemed to resolve their differences on the court, engaging in a brief conversation and even sharing a hug before leaving the floor. The Magic’s next match is set for Tuesday against the Miami Heat at 6 PM ET.