59YO NBA Veteran Defends Refs as LeBron James and More Call Out Controversial Calls: “Make the Adjustments”

The NBA officiating in the 2023–24 season has been a hot topic of discussion. From Draymond Green to LeBron James and from ex-NBA stars to NBA fans, there have been multiple instances of calling out referees this season. Meanwhile, another ex-NBA star, Mark Jackson, has weighed in on the issue. Jackson was recently on an episode of ‘Come And Talk 2 Me’ with his son, Mark Jackson Jr., aka Bluu, where he shared his narrative.

Appearing on the podcast, Bluu asked his father’s opinion on a change in the way referees are calling the games in the playoffs when compared to the regular season. As per Bluu’s observations, this could be throwing off several NBA stars. “Two things, I’ll say. One is; make the adjustments. If you’re the player. I don’t care what game I went into. I didn’t treat it like it was the last game because it’s a different refereeing crew and they’re going to referee differently,” Jackson replied.

The 59-year-old further mentioned that players do not necessarily need referees to be great but to be consistent with their ways. “I got to understand, if a referee is calling touch fouls offensively, they’re calling, you know, brush screens,” he said, adding, “If they’re calling illegal contact, if they’re allowing me to be a little bit more handsy as a defender,”

He also mentioned how, whatever way a referee is refereeing the game, a player has to make the proper adjustments accordingly. However, Jackson also believes the referees should stick to that for 48 minutes. But these things are easier said than done, especially when the stakes are high. And LeBron James’ latest incident involving a referee is one such example.

LeBron James’ recent altercation with referee

The LA Lakers legend recently suffered a 101-99 loss against the Denver Nuggets in Game 2. And worse than failing to level the series by 1-1 was losing the chance, despite having a 20-point lead until the third quarter. However, the drama of the game didn’t stay limited to the court. Notably, LeBron James felt aggrieved after what he believed was a missed foul during a crucial layup by him, when the Lakers were at 99-97 with around 47 seconds to go.

The King claimed he was hit during the drive and should have gotten a free-throw opportunity. But no such action was taken, and as a result, the four-time NBA champion chased a referee to complain about it. And as per the leaked audio posted by an X user, LeBron said, “Why didn’t you call the And-One? Why didn’t you call that sh**? It was right in front of you. I am asking you a question.” Now it can only be imagined if the call for a free throw could have altered the outcome.

As for now, one thing’s sure: the Lakers are standing 2-0 behind the Nuggets in the series. Do you agree with LeBron James’ narrative? Let us know in the comments.