Pacers' Paul George fined $15,000 for kicking ball into stands

Indiana Pacers forward Paul George has been fined $15,000 for kicking a ball into the stands during the Pacers' Saturday loss to the Chicago Bulls, the NBA announced on Tuesday.

The incident occurred with 1:42 remaining in the third quarter. George told reporters after the game he meant to kick the ball against the basket stanchion near the baseline, only to watch as it flew into the stands and struck a fan. He was ejected from the game but will not face a suspension.

The Pacers All-Star sent flowers and a note of apology to the fan he hit:

"Lindsey, I'm sorry for the ball hitting you at the game on Saturday!" George wrote. "It was not intentional. I hope you are feeling okay. Paul George."

The fan was not injured. After the game, George joked that his soccer skills needed some work.