Chicago Bulls guard Collin Sexton was fined $35,000 by the NBA on Tuesday night for directing an obscene gesture at the basket during a game at Barclays Center. The incident occurred during the Bulls’ 123-115 loss to the Brooklyn Nets, highlighting an intense moment of frustration within the game.
Details of the Gesture and Game Context
The inappropriate gesture happened in the third quarter, immediately following Sexton’s missed free throw. After successfully making his second shot from the free-throw line, Sexton quickly raised his middle finger towards the basket while retreating to play defense. The NBA’s official release confirmed the fine and emphasized the league’s stance against such behavior on the court.
“Chicago Bulls guard Collin Sexton has been fined $35,000 for making an inappropriate gesture on the playing court,”
NBA announcement, February 10, 2026
“Collin Sexton really flipped off the basket 💀💀pic.twitter.com/WWtgxKwfRs”
Legion Hoops, Twitter
Sexton’s Performance and Career Background
Despite the distraction caused by the gesture and subsequent fine, Sexton scored 21 points and grabbed five rebounds, shooting an efficient 6-of-8 from the free-throw line during the game. This contest was only his second appearance as a Chicago Bulls player, following his recent trade from the Charlotte Hornets, where Coby White was sent in the opposite direction.
Before joining the Hornets, Sexton spent four years with the Cleveland Cavaliers and later three seasons with the Utah Jazz. This season, he has averaged 14.4 points per game in about 22.7 minutes, primarily coming off the bench. Since moving to Chicago, his output has improved to an average of 19 points and four rebounds across two games.
Team Performance and Upcoming Schedule
The Bulls are currently struggling, having lost five consecutive games and eight of their last nine overall. This string of defeats adds pressure to a team desperate to turn its fortunes around as it prepares for the NBA All-Star break. Their next matchup is against the Boston Celtics on Friday, marking a final challenge before the league’s mid-season pause.
Implications of Sexton’s Conduct and Future Outlook
This fine serves as a reminder of the NBA’s strict policies regarding player conduct, especially in high-profile settings like the Barclays Center. Sexton’s gesture, while brief and perhaps a moment of personal frustration, carries a significant financial penalty and potential scrutiny from both the league and fans. Moving forward, how Sexton manages his on-court emotions may influence his reputation and relationship with the Bulls organization during a critical phase of their season.
Collin Sexton really flipped off the basket 💀💀pic.twitter.com/WWtgxKwfRs
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) February 10, 2026
