NEW YORK >> Los Angeles Clippers guard Chris Paul has been fined $25,000 for criticizing a female official after a loss at Cleveland.

The NBA announced the fine on Saturday. Paul was given a technical by rookie referee Lauren Holtkamp on Thursday night in the third quarter of a 105-94 loss to the Cavaliers, a game that featured five technicals against the Clippers.

After the game, Paul called the technical on an inbounds play "ridiculous" and said "this might not be for her." Holtkamp is one of two female officials in the NBA.

Paul appeared to say something to her as he waited for an inbound pass after a Cavaliers’ free throw. Paul said Friday that he was only upset with the call.

The penalty is in line with others the NBA has levied for criticism of officials.