Collin Sexton Fined $35,000 for Inappropriate Gesture During Game

In a recent game that has garnered considerable attention, Chicago Bulls guard Collin Sexton found himself at the center of controversy after an impulsive moment on the court resulted in a $35,000 fine. The incident occurred during the Bulls’ match against the Brooklyn Nets on February 9, 2026, at Barclays Center, a game that the Bulls lost 123-115.

The Incident: A Frustrated Gesture

After missing a free throw in the third quarter, Sexton expressed his frustration by flipping off the hoop as he headed back down the court. The gesture, while fleeting, was deemed inappropriate by the NBA, which subsequently announced the substantial fine.

Details of the Game:

• Date: February 9, 2026
• Opponent: Brooklyn Nets
• Final Score: Bulls 115, Nets 123
• Sexton’s Stats: 21 points, 5 rebounds, 6-of-8 from the free-throw line
• Post-Game Reaction: “It was just a moment of frustration,” Sexton later reflected.

The NBA’s official statement emphasized its commitment to maintaining professionalism on the court, underlining the need for players to uphold the league’s standards.

The Transition: Sexton in a New Team

This game marked only Sexton’s second appearance for the Bulls after being traded from the Charlotte Hornets. In exchange, the Hornets received Coby White, a young talent who had made a significant impact in Chicago.

Sexton’s Career Snapshot:

• Previous Teams: Cleveland Cavaliers, Utah Jazz, Charlotte Hornets
• Season Stats: 14.4 points per game, primarily off the bench
• Bulls Stats (2 games): 19 points and 4 rebounds per game

Sexton’s move to the Bulls was seen as a fresh start, and his performance has shown promise despite the apparent frustrations during games.

Bulls’ Recent Struggles

The Chicago Bulls are currently facing challenges, having lost five consecutive games and eight out of their last nine. The team is on the brink of needing a turnaround as they prepare for their upcoming match against the Boston Celtics before the NBA All-Star break.

Team Performance:

• Current Streak: 8 losses in the last 9 games
• Next Game: Against the Boston Celtics on February 11, 2026

This challenging stretch raises concerns about the Bulls’ playoff hopes as they navigate a tough season.

Conclusion

In a sport where emotions run high, Collin Sexton’s $35,000 fine serves as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with being a professional athlete. While his gesture was born out of frustration, it highlights the ongoing challenges the Bulls face both on and off the court. Moving forward, the team will look to rebound against the Celtics, hoping to regain momentum in their season.

For more on the latest NBA penalties and updates, visit the official NBA website and stay informed about player conduct and league rules.