The NBA has imposed a $25,000 fine on Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks following an inappropriate gesture he made during the team’s 133-98 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Thursday night. The incident unfolded in the final moments before halftime, as Brooks executed a driving shot while being fouled by Pacers guard Ben Sheppard. While on the floor, Brooks celebrated making the shot with a crotch-chop gesture, leading to the league’s decision to penalize him.
Brooks finished the game with an impressive 32 points, contributing significantly to the Suns’ performance. This is not the first fine for such behavior in the league; earlier this season, Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid was fined $50,000 for making a similar gesture during a game against the Boston Celtics. The “DX Chop” celebration is derived from professional wrestling, particularly popularized during WWE’s “Attitude Era” in the late 1990s.
Known for his intense demeanor, Brooks has a history of fines for various infractions throughout his nine-year career. Previously, he faced several penalties, including a $25,000 fine last season for profane language during an interview and another $35,000 for criticizing officiating and inappropriate language directed toward a referee. He was also fined for physical altercations and for evading mandatory media obligations during the 2023 NBA Playoffs.
Despite the recent controversy, Brooks has been an integral part of the Suns’ strong start to the season, currently boasting an 8-5 record. After being traded to Phoenix in a deal that sent Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets, Brooks faced challenges early on, missing six games due to a core muscle strain. However, since returning on November 11, the Suns have seen a four-game winning streak, with Brooks averaging 20.3 points and 29.1 minutes per game, showcasing his valuable contribution to the team’s success. The Suns are looking to build on this positive momentum as the season progresses.