Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga has made headlines early in the 2025–26 NBA season, but not for the reasons fans were expecting. The 23-year-old forward was fined $35,000 by the league for what the NBA described as “making inappropriate contact with and continuing to pursue a game official” during the Warriors’ preseason win against the Portland Trail Blazers on Tuesday night. The fine was announced on Thursday, adding an unexpected twist to what had been a promising start to Kuminga’s training camp.
The incident took place midway through the Warriors’ 118–111 victory over Portland. Kuminga, known for his physicality and explosive playing style, drove to the basket during the second quarter and appeared to absorb heavy contact from a Portland defender. Expecting a foul call that never came, he immediately turned toward referee Rodney Mott to argue his case. When the official ignored his protest, Kuminga continued pursuing him across the court, gesturing and voicing his frustration. The confrontation earned him a technical foul, and his refusal to let the matter go led to an ejection from the game.
At the time of his ejection, Kuminga had tallied seven points, six rebounds, and four assists in just 18 minutes of play a performance that showcased his versatility and energy before things went south. The league’s disciplinary office later reviewed the footage and determined that Kuminga’s actions violated league standards for player conduct toward officials.
This fine comes just weeks after Kuminga secured a significant career milestone: a two-year, $46.8 million contract extension with the Warriors. The deal made headlines due to drawn-out negotiations that reportedly carried into the team’s training camp in late September. The Warriors have made it clear they view Kuminga as an important part of their future, especially as the franchise transitions from its championship core into a new era led by emerging talents.
However, this incident underscores the emotional volatility that sometimes accompanies young, competitive players eager to prove themselves. Kuminga has long been praised for his intensity and drive, traits that have fueled his rise from a top draft pick to a key contributor on one of the league’s most scrutinized teams. Yet those same traits can occasionally boil over, leading to moments like Tuesday’s confrontation.
For the Warriors, maintaining discipline and composure is a crucial part of the team culture established by veterans such as Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Klay Thompson. Over the years, the organization has built a reputation for professionalism, and head coach Steve Kerr often emphasizes emotional control as part of the Warriors’ identity. With Green himself known for occasionally pushing emotional boundaries, the team understands that fiery competitiveness can sometimes lead to fines and suspensions, but it also knows how to guide players toward maturity.
Kuminga’s growth as a player has been evident over the past few seasons. Last year, he averaged 15.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game while shooting efficiently from the field. Unfortunately, injuries limited him to only 47 games, halting what could have been a breakout campaign. Entering this season healthy and motivated, Kuminga’s goal has been to earn a starting role and become a consistent scoring threat alongside Curry and Thompson.
Coaches and teammates have reportedly been impressed with his progress during the offseason. He’s worked on improving his outside shooting, defensive awareness, and overall decision-making areas that Kerr and the coaching staff identified as keys to his long-term success. With Andrew Wiggins and Draymond Green both expected to play important roles, Kuminga’s versatility on both ends of the court gives the Warriors a valuable weapon in their lineup.
Despite the setback, most within the organization view the fine as a learning moment rather than a major issue. Many young players experience emotional flare-ups early in their careers, especially when they feel calls aren’t going their way. The league enforces strict rules about player conduct toward officials to maintain respect and professionalism, and fines like this serve as reminders that passion must be balanced with control.
For Kuminga, the challenge moving forward will be to channel his competitiveness into production rather than frustration. The Warriors need his energy, athleticism, and aggressiveness, especially as they navigate a Western Conference filled with powerhouse teams like the Denver Nuggets, Dallas Mavericks, and Oklahoma City Thunder. As one of the most athletic players on the roster, Kuminga has the potential to swing games with his defense, fast-break play, and attacking ability.
The Warriors’ coaching staff has emphasized that the preseason is the perfect time to make mistakes and learn from them before the real games begin. Kuminga’s outburst may serve as a timely lesson in professionalism costly in dollars but valuable in experience. As he matures and continues developing his leadership skills, it’s expected that he will find the right balance between intensity and composure.
Fans of the Warriors have already expressed optimism about Kuminga’s future, with many believing he could be the next cornerstone of the franchise once the veteran era winds down. His combination of power, speed, and confidence has drawn comparisons to some of the league’s most versatile forwards.
While the $35,000 fine will certainly sting, it’s unlikely to derail Kuminga’s momentum heading into the season. The Warriors have full faith in his growth, and the incident might even fuel his motivation to let his play do the talking. As the team prepares for another push toward the playoffs, all eyes will be on Kumingsoa to see how he responds—both in behavior and in performance.
For now, the message from the league is clear: passion is welcome, but respect for officials is non-negotiable. For Jonathan Kuminga, the fine marks an early test of maturity, one that could shape how he’s perceived as he steps further into the spotlight of a new NBA season.
Jonathan Kuminga Fined $35,000 for Heated Exchange with Referee During Warriors Preseason Win Over Trail Blazers
