Pat Spencer Ejected After Headbutt in Warriors’ Game 5 Loss to Rockets

Tensions flared in Game 5 of the Western Conference first-round playoff series between the Golden State Warriors and the Houston Rockets, as the Rockets cruised to a 131-116 victory at Toyota Center. The game, which was already out of reach for the Warriors, saw a dramatic moment in the fourth quarter when Warriors guard Pat Spencer was ejected for headbutting Rockets center Alperen Şengün.

The Incident: Spencer and Şengün Clash

The altercation began midway through the fourth quarter when Dillon Brooks was fouled by Moses Moody on a defensive rebound. As Spencer walked away, he was bumped by Şengün, which led to a brief exchange of shoves. Before Trayce Jackson-Davis could intervene and push Şengün away, Spencer responded with a headbutt to the Rockets’ All-Star center.

Referee Review and Ejection

The referees quickly reviewed the play, resulting in offsetting technical fouls for Jackson-Davis and Şengün. However, Spencer was assessed a technical foul and ejected from the game for his “illegal headbutt” on Şengün.

Warriors’ Struggles and Upcoming Game 6

Despite the ejection, the Rockets had already established a commanding lead, and Warriors head coach Steve Kerr pulled his starters midway through the third quarter. The Warriors’ reserves, including Spencer, managed to close the gap slightly, but it was clear the game was out of reach.

The series isn’t over yet, though, as the Warriors will head back to the Bay Area for Game 6 on Friday night at Chase Center. With emotions running high, both teams are expected to bring intense energy as they look to secure the win and move forward in the postseason.