Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd was ejected early in Saturday night’s game against the Chicago Bulls after a heated exchange with veteran NBA referee Scott Foster.
The 17-20 Bulls hosted the 14-24 Mavericks, who came in shorthanded due to injuries.
Jason Kidd Ejected From Mavericks vs. Bulls Game
The incident occurred with 5:44 remaining in the first quarter at United Center. The sequence began after the Bulls gained possession, and guard Ayo Dosunmu went up for a shot near the rim.
The attempt was blocked from behind, but officials ruled the play goaltending. Kidd appeared frustrated with the call and signaled toward the bench, seemingly hoping to challenge the decision.
Play resumed after the Bulls inbounded the ball. Moments later, the Mavericks were granted a timeout. However, no coach’s challenge was allowed or reviewed, which further angered Kidd. He then engaged in a prolonged argument with Foster near the sideline.
Video of the altercation was posted by the NBA on ESPN’s official X account. In the clip, Kidd can be seen exchanging words with Foster before turning away and walking toward the locker room after being ejected. The Mavericks bench reacted with visible frustration as their head coach exited the game.
Scott Foster ejected Jason Kidd with 5:44 left in the first quarter. pic.twitter.com/cNhhyWrdVp
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) January 11, 2026
At the time of the ejection, Dallas was trailing 18-13. The Mavericks were already without Anthony Davis, who was ruled out due to a hand injury.
The ejection added to what has been a tense stretch for the Mavericks. The team has endured a frustrating season marked by injuries and inconsistent play. Dallas recently snapped a four-game losing streak with back-to-back wins but quickly lost momentum again.
On Thursday, the Mavericks suffered a 116-114 loss to the Utah Jazz. In that game, Davis sustained ligament damage in his left hand. ESPN’s Shams Charania later reported that surgery is being considered, which could sideline Davis for most of the season.
Davis’ injury has only increased pressure on Kidd and the Mavericks. With rookie phenom Cooper Flagg, star big man Davis, and veteran guard Klay Thompson, the roster appeared built to compete in the Western Conference.
Instead, injuries and losses have piled up. The Mavericks have struggled to maintain consistency on both ends of the floor, and frustrations have been visible during games.
Saturday’s ejection appeared to reflect that growing tension. Kidd has coached the Mavericks since June 28, 2021, and has been credited with helping guide the franchise back into contention, including a 2024 Finals appearance. However, this season has tested both his patience and the team’s resilience.
