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By Matthew Couden
Contributing Writer
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Boston Celtics star Paul George gained attention in his return to Philadelphia not only for his big night against his former team, but also for flipping off a 76ers fan during the matchup.
The incident added controversy to George's anticipated return to face the team that traded him in the blockbuster Jaylen Brown deal. While much of the focus was on Brown facing former teammate Jayson Tatum, George stole the spotlight with his performance and the fan incident.
After the game, the nine-time All-Star indicated that the fan had disrespected him during the incident late in the third quarter, prompting his reaction.
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"There was a fan being an [expletive]. He looked me dead in my eyes, dropped the ball on the ground as if like I'm a dog to go fetch or go get it instead of passing the ball to me like a normal fan would do, and so yeah, so then I rolled him a middle finger in return," George told reporters after the game.
More news: Jaylen Brown Draws Attention With Jayson Tatum Snub Before 76ers-Celtics Clash
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George's gesture came during a strong performance against the 76ers, as the Celtics' newest star shot 14-of-22 from the field, including 6-of-11 from 3-point range, finishing with 36 points. That propelled Boston to a 123-101 win in the first of several matchups between these two Eastern Conference contenders.
Multiple videos of the incident showing George's gesture towards the fan made it onto social media, including X, where commenters reacted to the clip.
"I just know the fans said some beyond hostile. They known for doing that," one commenter wrote about the Philadelphia fans.
Others commented, "lmfaooo ain’t no wayyy PG funny asf for that," and "NBA needs more of this!! Waive the fine!!"
Other fans predicted punishment, with comments including, "Fine incoming," and "He gonna get fined."
George could face an NBA fine, as the league has previously penalized players for obscene gestures in games. In February, guard Collin Sexton, who was playing for the Chicago Bulls against the Brooklyn Nets, was hit with a $35,000 fine for flipping his middle finger toward the rim during a game.
Former Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball also received a $35,000 fine in October 2025. However, his middle finger was toward an NBA referee rather than a fan sitting in the crowd.
George could still face a fine for his gesture, but he certainly made his presence felt with 36 points in his Philly return. The Celtics also improved to 9-2, moving ahead of the 9-3 76ers in the Eastern Conference standings.
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