The exhibition games have tipped off and Team USA shone over Canada. This was the first of five games that they’re set to play before the Paris Olympics. But as they faced Canada, guys like Steph, ANT, and Davis showed up big time. LeBron James, on the other hand, being the veteran, played his part too and led from the front. On the other hand, Canada had SGA and Dillon Brooks leading their way, despite the 14-point loss. While everyone expected this rival encounter to be fiery, the internet seems to have taken objection to a few incidents.

As we talk about Dillon Brooks, the 28-year-old has a history with LeBron James. The two have been aggressive, but it all came to a halt after the Grizzlies traded him to Houston. The most talked-about encounter was during the 2023 postseason. The Memphis side faced Bron and Co. in the first round, and it is safe to say that Brooks was ready to give his all. That series included a lot of trash talk between them and multiple exchanges. However, the Lakers had the last laugh as they won the series 4-2.

But the rivalry seems to have resumed as the two faced off in the exhibition game. Brooks was physical as always, but his move yesterday could’ve cost LeBron James his shot at the Olympics. In the first two minutes of the game, the Canadian deliberately stepped in LBJ’s way as he was driving to the basket through the clutter. Bron took a hard fall and fortunately, it wasn’t anything serious.

Though this did not seem like the most sportsman-like move from Brooks, what’s worse is that he didn’t only try this on LeBron.

Dillon Brooks tried to disturb Steph Curry’s drive-in the same way but wasn’t successful. This won’t only affect him during the game, but in the Olympics, these actions are strictly taken care of and it might cost him his participation. Other than that, the Canadian NT would also face the consequences. However, the Twitteratis were quick to spot this play and responded with the same brutality.

Fans are upset with Dillon Brooks recalling Gary Payton II’s horror fall

Rivalries are fun to watch, especially in the playoffs. But when it comes to certain instances where it may injure one of the players, it gets worse. Yes, the two have had multiple altercations in the past, but these are international games. Representing your country at the highest level is a completely different ball game with a whole other bunch of things at stake. Players are more competitive, giving their 100% to each possession and not worrying about injuries. But in the light of Brooks’ physical game, fans torched him.

Following the series against the Lakers last year, the Grizzlies weren’t exactly happy with Dillon’s performance. They planned on not bringing him back to the franchise, either. Fast forward to the present and one fan would “ban him” from the league if he could.

On the other hand, another fan noticed how Brooks was about to get in Steph’s way while he was going for a layup. Dillon planted his right foot, hoping to disturb his drive on SGA. Though Curry’s backfoot was quick enough to take off before he could’ve taken a hard fall.

Brooks has a history full of such plays. Back in 2022, when the Dubs faced the Grizzlies in the second round, Brooks fouled Gary Payton II in transition. The foul was a hard shove in the back that was enough to injure Payton’s left hand after an awkward landing.

He’d go on to miss a game after facing the heat from the NBA for “unnecessary and excessive contact”. Not only that but he was criticized by many. A netizen was quick to bring that up saying, “Then he’s gonna say he ain’t dirty when he broke gp2 hand”.

Quite frankly, the referees did not consider his play, mainly because they did not notice it. The game is fast-paced and certain things go unnoticed quite often. But as this individual states, “And the Refs didn’t care as if this is normal defensive basketball play 🤦‍♂️” Certain fans believe that Dillon Brooks may not be normal. He seems quite focused before games, but when he pulls off such moves, it doesn’t send a good impression to anyone watching. This person wants Dillon to get regular checkups after his move on James.

The USAB team will not be facing Canada, at least in the Group Phase. Besides France, Canada is also a strong opposition to look out for. But compared to the US star-studded roster, no team seems to have a chance this year. But then again, it will be a sight to see each of their games considering the legacy factor surrounding LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Stephen Curry’s likely final Olympics.

On the other hand, the baffling part is that Dillon Brooks’ move on King James seemed intentional, although the Canadian radiated only positivity when he spoke about Team USA before the game. “I’m happy that they’re playing because, you know, we get to test our talents against theirs. And you know, it should be a fun one,” he said. What are your thoughts on Dillon Brooks’ play on James and Curry after making these comments? Do you think he should face some consequences? Let us know in the comments.

Stay tuned for more such updates, and to follow what brand maker, Leonard Armato, had to say about the deadly duo, Shaq and Kobe, check out this exclusive video by EssentiallySports.