Coach Thibs Didn’t Hold Back As Controversial Officiating Cost Jalen Brunson Knicks’ Franchise Record & A Win

The San Antonio Spurs faced off against the New York Knicks in what was a remarkable performance from both teams. In the overtime matchup, the Spurs came on top with a 130-126 win. But unremarkable officiating served for a disappointing night for New York, despite Jalen Brunson’s 61 points! It was just one point shy of the franchise record set by Carmelo Anthony. And coach Tom Thibodeau wasn’t happy with the proceedings at all.

It would be putting it mildly when we say that the Knicks have been at the receiving end of some of the most controversial officiating. Talking to the press post-game, Thibs didn’t hide his annoyance but tried his best to keep it in check. “A foul’s a foul. That’s what I do know. What I’m hearing, I don’t really like. I don’t know what else you can do, what else you can say. It’s clear as day, it really is that simple,” he said in response to Brunson getting just six free throws on 47 shots!

Aside from this irritable incident, the rest of the game was a perfect match. The Spurs maintained control throughout the first half, but Brunson got hot in the third, outscoring San Antonio by himself with 23 points while knocking down 10-of-13 field goals and all four of his triples. Moving to the fourth, it was a blow-for-blow between Victor Wembanyama and Jalen Brunson.

With just 1:14 remaining, Brunson had New York up by 121-119. But a pair of Wemby free throws send the game to OT. Even in overtime, Jalen had a chance with 5.1 seconds left on the clock (SAS leading with 128-126), but his shot bounced off the rim. Wembanyama and the team held on to secure the win and, just like that, a dazzling performance came to an end.

Tom Thibodeau and the Knicks were victims of a similar fate in the previous month

There is no doubt that everyone will remember the highly controversial Houston Rockets vs New York Knicks officiating incident. The game took place on February 12 and the Rockets came out victorious with a 105-103 win. Jalen Brunson gets called for a foul at the buzzer, resulting in three free throws for Houston and the victory.

Read More: 6’2 Jalen Brunson Admits His One Glaring Weakness After Washout vs Nuggets

The game that would have gone to overtime ended up being a free pass for a Rockets win. Post the game, Crew Chief Ed Malloy revealed that the call was indeed unnecessary. With clear proof, Tom Thibodeau and the Knicks filed for a formal protest to the league for a replay. Unfortunately, it wasn’t granted because the call was an error in judgment. According to the NBA rule book, only misapplication of rules by officials can warrant a replay.

Well, there you go. What did you think of tonight’s incident, though? Let us know your thoughts below.