Jason Kidd fined after postgame outburst and media comments

Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd has been fined $35,000 by the NBA following comments he made after the team’s 111–107 loss to the Houston Rockets on January 31.

According to the league, the fine was issued for public criticism of officiating and the use of profane language during a media interview.

What Jason Kidd Said

After the loss in Houston, Kidd openly criticized the referees, naming them directly and disputing a late non-call that he believed should have sent Cooper Flagg to the free-throw line.

“I saw a foul,” Kidd said. “The referees were awful tonight. It’s a foul, and he needs to be at the free-throw line. The referees did not do their job.”

Kidd also pushed back strongly when asked about criticism of his decision to play Cooper Flagg at point guard, responding with a blunt defense of his experience.

“Criticism? That’s your opinion. You guys write that bullshit,” Kidd said. “I’ve done this. I’ve played this game. I played it. I know what the f… I’m doing.

“I don’t give a f… what you guys write because you guys have never played the game. I build players, so I know what the f… I’m doing.”

The combination of direct referee criticism, naming officials, and repeated profanity led to the NBA’s disciplinary action, announced today February 2.

Fan Reaction

The fine quickly sparked backlash from fans online, many of whom questioned the league’s consistency.

One fan wrote:
“Jaylen Brown and Mazzulla said worse. Make it make sense.”

Another added:
“This league has become so soft.”

Others focused on the lack of accountability for referees:
“Keep fining coaches and players, but never the refs.”

Several fans also defended Kidd’s comments, arguing that he was simply standing up for his team and speaking honestly after a close loss.

For now, the Mavericks move forward, while the conversation around referees, accountability, and coach expression continues.