Joakim Noah has been fined $15,000 (£9,200) following his ejection during the Chicago Bulls' defeat to the Sacramento Kings earlier this week.
The center unleashed an expletive-laden tirade at the officials following his ejection in the third quarter of the 99-70 loss on Monday evening.
Prior to last night's win over the Phoenix Suns, the 28-year-old told ESPN: "I think it was fair. It was a bad mistake on my part. I have to keep my cool under all circumstances. It's unfortunate I have to pay for it. And I have to move on and just get ready for the game.
"I was ready for whatever consequences were going to be thrown my way. I'm just happy that I'm able to play [Tuesday] and be there with my teammates.
"I think I was just frustrated with that. I just have to do a better job of keeping my composure. I could've easily been suspended for a game and that would've been really hard for me just not to be able to be there for my teammates. So I can't let things like that happen."
Noah has averaged 11.6 points per game this season.
Sian Cowper
