Transcript: NBA Referee Mark Ayotte Comments to Pool Reporter after Timberwolves – 76ers Game

October 30, 2019

Pool Reporter Transcript

Crew Chief Mark Ayotte

 

Postgame – Minnesota Timberwolves at Philadelphia 76ers

NBA Crew Chief Mark Ayotte with pool reporter Rob Maaddi of The Associated Press after the game between the Timberwolves and 76ers tonight. Here is a transcript of that interview.

 

Q: What led to the determination of an ejection for both players?

Ayotte: We deemed the altercation a fight. Therefore, by rule, they’re both ejected.

 

Q: Is there anything you saw that started the altercation? Did either player do anything to provoke the other player in your eyes?

Ayotte: No, I just saw them each lock arms. And that escalated to the fight.

 

Q: Did you rule that Ben Simmons was trying to break up the fight when he had Towns on the ground?

Ayotte: Yes, we deemed him a peacemaker.