James Johnson’s Game 6 appearance in the NBA Finals lasted just two minutes, but it certainly didn’t go unnoticed. The Indiana Pacers veteran was ejected shortly after checking in, following a heated altercation with Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kevin Jones.
The scuffle began when Johnson went for an offensive rebound and was met by Kevin Jones, who held his ground and initiated contact to box him out. In response, Johnson shoved him back. The referees quickly halted play and went to the monitors to review the incident, issuing double technicals as a result.
While the broadcast attempted to keep up with the drama, “James Johnson, who we just waxed poetic about… just got ejected!” said the legendary Mike Breen, just as Johnson got thrown out. It was a moment that perfectly captured the chaos of a Finals series that’s seen no shortage of emotion or physicality.
Johnson, 38, is no stranger to intensity. Despite limited minutes, his presence alone is often enough to keep things in check. Nicknamed one of the NBA’s most feared players, he holds a black belt in karate and claims to have an undefeated kickboxing record. Whether or not all the stories are true, his reputation as an enforcer is well documented and respected.
Even his own teammates have praised his behind-the-scenes impact. “Go ahead and make your mark in the Finals,” Richard Jefferson joked as he exited, knowing full well that Johnson’s contribution goes beyond stats.
With tempers flaring and the stakes sky-high, Johnson’s quick ejection might’ve been brief, but it still sent a message. The Pacers are not backing down, and neither is their toughest voice on the bench.
(This is a building story…)
The post Why Did James Johnson Get Ejected? Pacers Veteran Exits in 2-Minutes After Heated Altercation vs Thunder appeared first on EssentiallySports.
