Dillon Brooks’ night ended early Friday after a controversial play involving Jamal Murray during the Phoenix Suns’ NBA Cup opener against the Denver Nuggets.

The former NBA All-Defensive Second Team selection was assessed a Flagrant 2, drawing mixed reactions from fans over whether the punishment fit the play.

Dillon Brooks’ Flagrant 2 Ejection Divides Hoops Community

With 8:05 left in the third quarter, Brooks attempted a turnaround jumper while being defended by Murray. The Suns forward fell backward, extending his right leg into the Denver guard’s groin.

Murray stayed down briefly but remained in the game. Officials initially called an offensive foul, then reviewed the contact and upgraded it to a Flagrant 2, resulting in Brooks’ ejection.

One response to the footage challenged the ruling: “That’s rigged. Wasn’t even intentional. Bogus call.”

Another commenter agreed: “That’s not a flagrant 2 bro smh.”

The criticism continued with a shorter reaction: “Trash call.”

Others were less sympathetic. Basketball account “Oh No He Didn’t” had this reaction: “Dillon Brooks doing his best Draymond impression here with the kick to the nuts on Jamal Murray. Result: Ejected.”

Sports account SM Highlights added: “I love the energy from guys like this, I really do, but it gets to a point. Kinda getting ridiculous.”

Another fan pointed to the former Memphis Grizzlies player’s history: “Not the first time the Villain was ejected for an assault on someone’s groin. This was back in 2023.”

On Feb. 2, 2023, Brooks struck Cleveland Cavaliers star Donovan Mitchell in the groin area with his arm after falling to the floor. Officials assessed a Flagrant 2 following a review, and the NBA suspended him for one game without pay.

Later that year, the Canadian forward was ejected again in Game 3 of Memphis’ playoff series against the Los Angeles Lakers. He received a Flagrant 2 for striking LeBron James below the belt just 17 seconds into the second half.

Friday’s ejection came while the Suns’ leading scorer was having a strong offensive night. Brooks had 22 points on 9-for-12 shooting, including 4 made 3-pointers, before leaving Phoenix’s NBA Cup opener at Mortgage Matchup Center.