Luka Doncic Fined $50,000 for 'Inappropriate Gesture' to NBA Official

The Lakers star was penalized for making a 'money' gesture toward a referee during a game against the Knicks.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

The NBA has fined Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic $50,000 for directing an 'inappropriate gesture' toward an official during Sunday's game against the New York Knicks. Doncic disagreed with a blocking foul call against him in the third quarter and responded by making a 'money' gesture, potentially insinuating the official made the call on purpose.

Why it matters

Doncic is no stranger to technical fouls and fines from the NBA, having been penalized multiple times in the past for similar actions toward officials. This latest incident highlights the ongoing tension between star players and referees, as well as the league's efforts to maintain discipline and respect on the court.

The details

According to NBA insider Chris Haynes, Doncic made the 'money' gesture toward a referee standing on the baseline after the official called a blocking foul on him during the third quarter. Doncic, who is second in the league with 15 technical fouls this season, is now just one away from a one-game suspension.

  • The incident occurred during the third quarter of Sunday's game between the Los Angeles Lakers and New York Knicks.

The players

Luka Doncic

A 27-year-old star player for the Los Angeles Lakers who has a history of technical fouls and fines from the NBA for his interactions with officials.

Dillon Brooks

A player for the Phoenix Suns who currently leads the NBA with 16 technical fouls this season.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Doncic will have to be more careful with his interactions with officials going forward, as one more technical foul will result in a one-game suspension.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the ongoing tension between star players and NBA referees, and the league's efforts to maintain discipline and respect on the court. Doncic's history of technical fouls and fines suggests he may need to adjust his approach in order to avoid further penalties and suspensions.