Phoenix Suns star Devin Booker has broken a significant silence, publicly naming and lambasting NBA official James Williams for a "terrible" performance during the Suns' Game 2 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder. The team now trails the series 2-0.
Booker directly called out James Williams, stating he was "terrible tonight" and "terrible through and through." This marked a rare public criticism from the normally reserved player regarding officiating. The flashpoint appears to stem from a technical foul assessed to Booker late in the third quarter, with the Suns already trailing significantly. Booker claims he was not given a clear explanation for the call and suggested he overheard opposing player Alex Caruso prompting the referees to issue the technical.
Technical Troubles and Broader Complaints
The frustration over calls wasn't confined to Booker. Teammate Dillon Brooks also voiced displeasure with the officiating, particularly regarding calls benefiting Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City's leading scorer. Brooks, who himself received a technical foul, reportedly questioned whistles that favored the Thunder. Booker echoed broader concerns, stating that inconsistent officiating is "bad for the integrity of the sport" and akin to "professional wrestling." He expressed a belief that referees are not calling games "down the middle."
Read More: Detroit Pistons tie series 1-1 after beating Orlando Magic 98-83 in Game 2
Game Details and Future Implications
The Suns committed 22 turnovers in Game 2, with Booker being responsible for six of them. While Booker's technical foul is a focal point, other exchanges also drew technicals, including one between Brooks and Luguentz Dort. Suns coach Jordan Ott confirmed he and Booker did not receive satisfactory explanations for certain calls. The league has not yet issued a public response to Booker's comments. The Suns are set to host the Thunder for Game 3 on Saturday.
