In the twenty-fifth round of the CBA regular season, Xinjiang Flying Tigers faced off against Shandong High-Speed, a defensive battle where both teams played with high intensity on the defensive end. Xinjiang's main guard, Zhao Rui, was ejected from the game for colliding with a referee before the first quarter had even ended. With 5 minutes and 3 seconds left in the first quarter, Zhao Rui, wearing number 10 for Xinjiang, fell to the ground during a fast-break layup attempt and then rushed towards the referee to argue. He was subsequently called for a technical foul. Zhao Rui, dissatisfied with the referee's decision, charged forward and physically bumped into the referee, leading to his disqualification from the game. Notably, during Zhao Rui's exit from the court, he pointed at the referee and used insulting language. After the game, it was determined that Zhao Rui's behavior had a negative impact on the CBA league, resulting in a suspension and fine.
According to league regulations, the CBA company has imposed a five-game suspension and a fine of 100,000 yuan on Zhao Rui. In the next five games, Xinjiang will face Sichuan Blue Whales, Shanxi Brave Dragons, Nanjing Tongxi Monkey King, Fujian Sturgeons, and Nanjing Tongxi Monkey King again. Additionally, Xinjiang's head coach, Liu Wei, has also been fined 20,000 yuan.
Zhao Rui was already unhappy with Dehao's defense and complained to the referee, only to receive another technical foul. His emotions escalated, and he charged towards the referee, chest-to-chest, causing the referee to stumble back several steps, almost falling. Moreover, after the game, Zhao Rui allegedly engaged in a social media spat with netizens, posting some controversial comments, which he quickly deleted. Before the penalty was announced, Zhao Rui had issued an apology through social media: "During last night's game, due to poor management of my personal emotions, I engaged in an uncalm collision with the referee. Here, I sincerely apologize to everyone affected and offer a formal apology for my improper behavior. After calming down, I have deeply reflected. As a professional basketball player, I bear the responsibility of representing my team, the CBA league, and the image of Chinese basketball. However, in that moment, I failed to fulfill my duties and did not set a positive example for Chinese basketball, for which I feel deep regret and self-reproach. At the same time, I realize that only by sincerely facing my mistakes and actively correcting them can I regain everyone's trust and respect. I respect and accept the punishment made by the Chinese Basketball Association and the league, and I will express my apologies through concrete actions. Thank you once again for your tolerance and support."
As Xinjiang's main guard, Zhao Rui averaged 23.3 minutes per game this season, contributing 9.6 points, 2.9 rebounds, 4.6 assists, and 0.9 steals. He previously had an outstanding performance against Shandong with 29 points and 6 assists. During the five-game suspension, Xinjiang will face their toughest challenge against Shanxi. Without Zhao Rui, the pressure on Xinjiang's backcourt rotation will increase, and it remains to be seen how Coach Liu Wei will utilize the young guards Yilifu Lati and Xierzati.
