Chicago Bulls guard Collin Sexton was fined $35,000 by the NBA for an inappropriate gesture during Monday's 123-115 loss to the Brooklyn Nets. Sexton missed the first of two free throws with 1:31 left in the third quarter, then threw up his middle finger while backing away from the rim. The fine marks the league's strictest disciplinary action against a player for on-court conduct this season.

Sexton, acquired via trade from the Charlotte Hornets for Coby White before the deadline, is averaging 19.0 points and 4.0 rebounds in his first two games with Chicago. His 40.6% shooting has provided brief offensive spark, but the Bulls remain 0-3 since the roster overhaul and have lost five consecutive games. The punishment raises questions about Sexton's fit in the team's rebuilding efforts, as he’ll become a free agent after the season.