James Harden shocked he was ejected vs. Nets / News - Basketnews.com

James Harden admits he left surprised after being ejected, saying he didn't even think the foul was on him.

Credit: USA TODAY Sports-Scanpix Credit USA TODAY Sports-Scanpix

Philadelphia 76ers star James Harden was left in disbelief after being ejected against the Brooklyn Nets.

Player of the Game EFF 20 Tyrese Maxey Points 25 Accuracy 10-17 Rebounds 3 Assists 3

It didn't change after the game finished.

"I didn't get an explanation, but that is unacceptable," said Harden via Kyle Neubeck, The Philly Voice. "I didn't even think it was a foul on me. Somebody was draped on me, and you use your off arm to get him off you, and that was it."

"It wasn't like a windup elbow or none of that. I didn't hit him in the private area or none of that. That just can't happen, it can't happen," Harden added.

Harden was thrown out for hitting a Brooklyn player in the groin area after Embiid dodged an ejection for a kick near the same spot of another player Thursday night in a tense Game 3 of the playoffs between the Philadelphia 76ers and Nets.

Harden was dribbling while defended closely byRoyce O'Nealewhen he swung out his arm and hit O'Neale, who fell to the court in pain. Referees reviewed the play and called Harden for a Flagrant foul 2, an automatic ejection.

After the game, Crew Chief Tony Brothers explained that Harden's hit in the groin was deemed excessive, hence the decision to eject him.

In a 102-97 win, Harden finished the game with 21 points (5/8 2PT, 3/7 3PT, 2/3 3PT), 5 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 turnovers.

The 76ers lead the series 3-0. Game 4 in Brooklyn will take place on Saturday at 1 pm ET.

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