Russell Westbrook receives technical foul for hitting ref in head with ball

Joe Rodgers

Russell Westbrook receives technical foul for hitting ref in head with ball image

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Russell Westbrook was given a technical foul in Wednesday's game against the Hornets after the Thunder guard tossed the ball at an inattentive official after a timeout, accidentally striking him in the head. 

Tre Maddox, the official hit by the overhand throw, didn't issue the technical foul on Westbrook; it was called by Brent Barnaky, who saw the whole incident unfold. 

MORE: Westbrook says he's not 'reffed' the same way' as other players

Westbrook, who was complaining to Maddox earlier in the game for not calling a foul on two aggressive drives to the basket, immediately threw up his hands to suggest it wasn't his intent to strike him. He apologized after the timeout. 

Joe Rodgers