Draymond Green grabs Jabari Smith Jr.'s previously injured ankle, gets 12th technical foul

The incident occurred during a key matchup between the Warriors and Rockets in the tight Western Conference playoff race.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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In a game between the Golden State Warriors and Houston Rockets, Warriors forward Draymond Green grabbed the previously injured right ankle of Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. after an on-court incident. The move by Green resulted in him receiving his 12th technical foul of the season. The game held playoff implications for both teams as they jockey for position in the Western Conference standings.

Why it matters

The incident between Green and Smith Jr. raised concerns about player safety and unsportsmanlike conduct, especially given Smith Jr.'s recent ankle injury. The game also had major playoff implications, with the Rockets looking to clinch the season series against the Warriors and improve their standing in the West, while the Warriors are fighting to hold onto the 8th seed.

The details

With 9:49 left in the third quarter and the Warriors leading, Green was whistled for an offensive foul on a moving screen that sent him to the floor. As Green stood up, he grabbed the right ankle of Smith Jr., who had just returned from missing two games due to a right ankle sprain. The controversial move by Green resulted in him receiving his 12th technical foul of the season.

  • The incident occurred with 9:49 remaining in the third quarter of the March 6, 2026 game between the Warriors and Rockets.
  • Jabari Smith Jr. had missed two games prior to this contest due to a right ankle sprain.

The players

Draymond Green

A forward for the Golden State Warriors who is known for his physical, aggressive style of play.

Jabari Smith Jr.

A forward for the Houston Rockets who had recently returned from missing two games due to a right ankle sprain.

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What they’re saying

“Draymond plays a dirty game and tries to trip rockets player grabbing his ankle after just missing two games with an ankle injury”

— Bay Area Super fans (Twitter)

What’s next

The NBA is expected to review the incident and determine if any further disciplinary action is warranted against Draymond Green for his actions.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing tensions and physical play in the NBA, as well as the need for greater emphasis on player safety, especially when it comes to injuries. It also underscores the high stakes of this late-season matchup between two Western Conference playoff contenders.