BREAKING: Rockets’ Jock Landale hilariously calls out Dillon Brooks after ejection over scuffle with DeMar DeRozan
Bulls’ DeMar DeRozan, Rockets’ Dillon Brooks ejected after wild on-court scuffle
In a heated matchup between the Chicago Bulls and the Houston Rockets on Thursday night, tensions flared as DeMar DeRozan clashed with Dillon Brooks on the court. The game, which saw the Rockets holding a late lead, was filled with excitement for fans of high-scoring basketball and on-court intensity.
Before tip-off, Rockets’ injured center Alperen Sengun received praise for his unexpectedly strong performance this season, while Jalen Green’s remarkable improvement after early-season struggles was attributed to a heartwarming reason.
However, as the third quarter drew to a close, the game took a dramatic turn when DeRozan delivered a forceful check reminiscent of hockey, targeting Jalen Green near center court. This controversial play sparked outrage and fascination among fans, generating a level of intensity rarely seen in recent times. The aftermath of the incident saw Rockets’ big man Jock Landale responding as Houston celebrated what felt like a significant victory.
“This Ain’t Memphis Man” — Landale’s Emotional Plea to Dillon Brooks
@espn DeMarDeRozan and DillonBrooks were both ejected from the game. nba basketball
Following the game, Rockets’ center Jock Landale urged his teammate, former Memphis Grizzlies standout Dillon Brooks, to exercise restraint in his on-court conduct to avoid facing consequences that could impact his availability in future games. Despite Brooks’ standout performance during the game, he was unable to finish on the court for the final stretch due to his involvement in extracurricular activities.
"Dillon Brooks, if you're listening. This ain't Memphis, man. Stop getting yourself ejected. We need you out here. We need that physicality."
Jock Landale had a message for his Rockets teammate after his ejection against the Bulls 😅pic.twitter.com/UDnAys1imq
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) March 22, 2024
Brooks, DeRozan Ejected After Wild On-Court Scuffle
Video footage of the incident was swiftly uploaded to X by reporter Will Gottlieb, rapidly gaining traction and going viral across social media platforms.
In the footage, DeMar DeRozan appeared to target Jalen Green, the talented young guard of the Rockets, as he crossed the center line, resulting in chaos erupting in Houston. Green could be seen wincing in pain as he lay on the hardwood floor. Meanwhile, DeRozan calmly walked back towards the Bulls’ side of the court, only to be approached by Dillon Brooks. The two stars engaged in a heated exchange, with DeRozan exchanging words before the situation escalated further.
As tensions intensified, Brooks became entangled in a physical altercation, leading to a chaotic scene with players from both teams joining in, adding to the commotion on the court.
DeMar DeRozan and Dillon Brooks were ejected after a scuffle broke out during the Bulls-Rockets game.
Brooks didn't like the hard foul by DeRozan on teammate Jalen Green, the two got into it, and were both ejected from the game 💥pic.twitter.com/deuNbQokLb
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) March 22, 2024
Fans React to Rockets, Bulls Scuffle
As fans watched the altercation unfold on X, reactions varied widely.
Some expressed concern about the situation, with one fan remarking, “This is not looking good for DeRozan and Coach Billy Donovan’s team.” Another fan acknowledged Dillon Brooks’ role in instilling toughness in the young Rockets team, saying, “That’s exactly what Dillon Brooks is getting paid to do.”
However, there were also calls for disciplinary action, with one fan suggesting, “Suspend them both for three games.” Many were surprised that DeRozan wasn’t ejected for his aggressive play, with one fan labeling him a “loser” for his actions and another questioning why he wasn’t removed from the game after the tackle.
Despite the drama, Brooks had a strong performance before his ejection, scoring 23 points in just 25 minutes, while Green contributed 26 points, four rebounds, and three assists for the Rockets. DeRozan, on the other hand, scored 16 points, grabbed two rebounds, and dished out two assists before being ejected.
The Rockets ultimately secured a 127-117 victory over the Bulls, but questions remained regarding Brooks’ availability for their upcoming game against the Utah Jazz on Saturday.