The NBA announced Wednesday that Rockets coach Ime Udoka will pay a $25,000 fine for publicly criticizing the officiating after Houston’s 128-125 overtime defeat to the Denver Nuggets.
The Fine
The league’s disciplinary action followed Udoka’s post-game press conference remarks. The fine reflects the NBA’s policy on public statements about game officials, which is designed to preserve the integrity of the sport.
The Coach’s Critique
During the press conference, Udoka said the game was “the most poorly officiated (he’s) seen in a long time” and took a shot at each official. He continued to blame the referees for a series of questionable decisions.
Direct Quote
“Two (refs) have no business being out there and crew chief was acting starstruck, so you’re seeing all kinds of inconsistent calls, and I’m sure we should’ve got a few more techs,” Udoka said after the game.
The Game
Houston’s 128-125 overtime loss came after a tightly contested match that saw both teams exchange baskets throughout regulation. The Nuggets ultimately pulled ahead in the final minutes, sealing the win.
Key Players Involved
The game featured notable performances from Denver’s Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray, while Houston’s Amen Thompson and Kevin Durant were involved in the officiating controversies highlighted by Udoka.
Last Two Minute Report
The NBA’s Last Two Minute Report revealed that there were three incorrect calls in overtime, all of which favored Denver. The report stated that the officials missed a call against Denver’s Tim Hardaway Jr., and Houston’s Amen Thompson and Kevin Durant were incorrectly called for fouls.
Specific Incorrect Calls
The missed call against Hardaway Jr. and the fouls on Thompson and Durant resulted in Denver receiving four free throws. These calls were among the three highlighted by the league’s report.
Consequence of the Calls
Jokic and Murray both went 2 for 2 on those free throws, extending the Nuggets’ lead to 128-122 with 47.2 seconds remaining in the game.
Jokic’s Triple-Double and the Nuggets’ Streak
Nikola Jokic recorded his 12th triple-double of the season during the game, and the Nuggets secured their fifth consecutive win.
Context of the Fine
The NBA’s fine policy applies to any coach who publicly criticizes officials, and Udoka’s remarks triggered the $25,000 penalty. The league’s disciplinary measures are intended to deter future public criticisms.
Key Takeaways
- Rockets coach Ime Udoka fined $25,000 for post-game criticism of officials.
- The fine followed a 128-125 overtime loss to the Denver Nuggets.
- NBA’s Last Two Minute Report cited three incorrect calls that favored Denver.
The incident underscores the NBA’s commitment to maintaining officiating standards and the consequences for coaches who publicly challenge them.
