Dallas Mavericks’ J.J Barea accepts Andrew Bynum’s apology
Dallas Mavericks point-guard José Juan "J.J." Barea has accepted the apology of the Los Angeles Lakers big man Andrew Bynum, who committed a flagrant foul on him in the final game of Western Conference semi-finals.
The episode took place during the game-4 of the semi-final when Bynum, in the face of a huge deficit and a looming sweep, could not control his frustration. With 8:21 remaining in the final buzzer, Barea surged towards the basket
challenging Bynum, who was the lone player in the vicinity. Andrew hit Barea in the ribs with the elbow in the mid-air as Mavericks guard crashed to the floor which caused an automatic ejection for Bynum as a result of flagrant foul 2.
On Tuesday, Bynum made a public apology.
Andrew regretted the incident and said, “I want to actually apologize to J.J. Barea for doing that. I'm just glad that he wasn't seriously injured in the event and all I can say is, I've looked at [the replay], it's terrible and
it definitely won't be happening again."
He later phoned Barea and left an apologetic message on his voice mail. Barea was gracious in his forgiveness.
"I believe him. He regrets fouling me. He regrets what he did. I think he means well and it's just a mistake that can happen to anybody." Barea said on Wednesday after Dallas’ first complete practice session since clinching the
Conference finals berth.
The 26-year-old Mavericks’ point guard did not feel it necessary to return Andrew’s call and showed a true sportsmen spirit to move on.
Barea had pulled off a dominating performance against the Lakers in game-4. He racked up a career-high 22 points and dished out 8 assists to lead his team for a comprehensive 36-point victory.
The league handed down the penalty two days after the game in which the two-time defending champions were swept out of the play-offs. Bynum received five games suspension that will be served in the next season and he was also fined
$25000 for ripping apart his jersey and leaving the court in an awkward manner.
Dallas seemed satisfied with the justice meted out as the coach Rick Carlisle said, "It's up to the league. This isn't the People's Court. It's a significant penalty."
The Dallas Mavericks are now looking forward for the Conference finals where they will either meet the Oklahoma City Thunder or the Memphis Grizzlies.
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