Celtics' Jayson Tatum ejected for arguing foul call vs. Sixers

Boston Celtics' Jayson Tatum (0) keeps the ball away from Philadelphia 76ers' De'Anthony Melton, left, during the first half of an NBA basketball game Friday, Dec. 1, 2023, in Boston. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer)

BOSTON (AP) — Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum was ejected from Friday night’s game against the Philadelphia 76ers for arguing a call at the end of the third quarter.

Tatum had also picked up a technical in the first quarter.

The four-time All-Star had 21 points, seven rebounds and four assists, but he also had seven turnovers. With 2.1 seconds left in the third quarter and Boston up 95-94, he lost control of the ball along the sideline and hit Sixers forward Robert Covington in the face in the ensuing scramble.

Tatum was whistled for a foul and argued the call extensively, with Celtics coaches trying to hold him back. He was ejected after he interrupted the referee huddle by the scorer’s table.

After a review, the foul was upgraded to a Flagrant 1. Covington hit the free throw to tie it at 95-all.

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