It is a shame when the game becomes about the referees. Despite the league marketing its biggest stars, sometimes the excessive foul-calling can get annoying. But, that is from the perspective of a fan. For those on the court, it can be a demoralizing experience. Unfortunately, it became the story of the Golden State Warriors match against the Denver Nuggets. Due to a ridiculous free throw total for Nikola Jokic, Steve Kerr had to finally step in.
After a perfect defensive possession, one errant foul call can derail the entire momentum of the game. On a day as sacred as Christmas, with marquee matchups in abundance, this problem comes under a microscope. During the post-game press conference, Kerr did not hold back in airing his frustrations. But, with the state of the NBA, as it is, a fine might be incoming soon. Despite being aware of the consequences, the brainchild of the Warriors dynasty couldn’t take it anymore.
Watch This Story: Steve Kerr Brutally Slams Referees’ “Never Heard” Rule For Harsh Draymond Green Ejection
However, he did try his best to avoid the consequences. “I have no problems with the officials themselves…All across the league, we have really good officials.” But, that did not mean that a 4x Champion as a coach would hold back.
“I have a problem with the way we are legislating defense out of the game. That’s what we’re doing in the NBA…We’re just enabling players to BS their way to the foul line. If I were a fan, I wouldn’t have wanted to watch the second half of that game. It was disgusting.”
Steve Kerr sounds off after Nikola Jokic’s 18 free throws: “I have a problem with the way we are legislating defense out of the game.We're just enabling players to BS their way to the foul line. If I were a fan, I wouldn't have wanted to watch the second half. It was disgusting." pic.twitter.com/YBWuldi0Za
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) December 25, 2023
With Golden State barely losing the contest, perhaps it was Steve’s way of shifting blame on the “baiting” tendencies of the officials.
Not his team, Steve Kerr blames Nikola Jokic’s baiting
Even though the Warriors did not play to their usual standards, it was the overselling of foul calls that decided the game. According to the 9-year coaching veteran at least. “It was just baiting refs into calls. But, the refs have to make those calls because that’s how they’re taught.”
While he would keep a cavalier attitude, Kerr’s anger was palpable. As he continued on his tirade, his words turned increasingly expressive. “We have enabled the players and they’re taking full advantage and it’s a parade to the free-throw line and it’s disgusting to watch.”
Dec 11, 2023; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) after a victory against the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
Under Adam Silver, the league has continued its trajectory to a more offense-minded approach. Whether that be the analytics or the player’s smartness that the father of 3 is pointing out, the results are apparent.
However, dismissing his team’s mediocre performance, especially Stephen Curry was certainly a choice by Kerr. Perhaps, the absence of Draymond Green was the next best reason for the Warriors’ heartbreak.
Do you agree with Steve Kerr’s comments about the free throw calls? Let us know in the comments below.
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The post “It Was Disgusting”: Livid Steve Kerr Lashes Out at Adam Silver’s NBA After Nikola Jokic’s 18-Free Throws Ruins Warriors’ Christmas Day appeared first on EssentiallySports.
