Devin Booker slams officiating as Phoenix Suns lose to Oklahoma City Thunder
Devin Booker and Dillon Brooks have heavily criticised the officiating after the Phoenix Suns suffered a 120-107 play-off defeat against the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday.
The loss leaves Phoenix trailing 2-0 in the best-of-seven series against the reigning title holders.
Booker, an 11-year league veteran, was particularly angered by a technical foul he received in the third quarter.
The Phoenix star singled out crew chief James Williams by name, suggesting the integrity of the sport is at stake.
“It’s bad for the sport, bad for the integrity of the sport. People are going to start viewing this as a WWE if they’re not held responsible.”
Devin Booker
Brooks questions physicality
Suns forward Brooks also expressed immense frustration after fouling out in the closing moments of the contest despite scoring 30 points.
The Canadian international directed his ire towards the whistle blown for his national team-mate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
Gilgeous-Alexander, the reigning Most Valuable Player, scored a game-high 37 points and converted all nine of his free-throw attempts.
“He’s a little frail, and that’s what the refs are going to call. I got to be smarter about it, but this is the playoffs. It’s a man’s game.”
Dillon Brooks
The former Memphis Grizzlies defender pleaded for a return to the physical style of past play-off eras, questioning why flopping is tolerated.
Gilgeous-Alexander unfazed
Despite the verbal barbs, Gilgeous-Alexander refused to be drawn into a war of words with his summer international colleague.
The Oklahoma City standout had previously attempted 17 free throws in his team’s blowout victory in Game 1.
He insisted his sole focus remains on securing victories for his franchise as they look to defend their crown.
“I can’t control what Dillon or anybody else on the other side is going to complain about. All I can do is try to go out there and win basketball games for my team.”
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
The Thunder guard concluded by praising the energy his opponent brought to the court, noting that he loves the competitive nature of their match-ups.
