NBA Suspends James Harden for Kicking LeBron James in the Groin

The NBA announced Monday that Houston Rockets guard James Harden will be suspended for one game without pay for kicking Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James in the groin during Sunday’s game.

During the third quarter, Harden fell to the ground during a tussle for the ball and appears to have lifted his foot to give James a little kick below the belt. James was incensed and had a few words for Harden during the altercation.

After the game, Harden said the kick was unintentional and he didn’t think he would be suspended.

Naturally, James’ teammates had a different reaction

The suspension comes at an unfortunate time for Houston as they must travel to face the Atlanta Hawks, the league’s leader in wins, on Tuesday.

James Harden is in the middle of an outstanding season; he leads the league in scoring and is a front runner for the Most Valuable Player award. LeBron James is probably professional basketball’s most recognizable star and is widely considered to be the best player in the world.