Mathurin Ejected, Hunter Shoves Back in Heated Pacers-Cavaliers Game 4

The Indiana Pacers and Cleveland Cavaliers series just got a whole lot more heated. Sunday's Game 4 saw a dramatic first quarter ejection after a physical confrontation between Pacers guard Bennedict Mathurin and Cavaliers forward De'Andre Hunter.

The tension between the two players, which had been simmering since a verbal exchange in Game 3, erupted into a full-blown scuffle early in the contest. Mathurin was assessed a Flagrant 2 foul and immediately ejected after striking Hunter with what officials deemed a "closed fist."

Hunter responded by forcefully shoving Mathurin, sending him sliding across the court. The incident escalated when Pacers center Myles Turner joined the fray, shoving Hunter before teammates from both sides intervened to separate the players.

Turner and Hunter were each assessed technical fouls for their roles in the altercation. Hunter, despite the boos from the Indiana crowd, remained in the game after shooting two free throws (making one) and later returning from the bench.

The ejection of Mathurin is a significant blow to the Pacers, as they now face an uphill battle against the Cavaliers. The league may review the incident for further disciplinary action. The game will be remembered for its intensity and the ongoing feud between Mathurin and Hunter, which promises to add even more fuel to this already fiery playoff series.