Steve Kerr foul/ Warriors vs. Rockets/ NBA Cup controversy/ Jonathan Kuminga foul/ Jalen Green free throws/ HOUSTON/ Newslooks/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr harshly criticized a controversial foul call that contributed to the team’s 91-90 loss to the Houston Rockets in the NBA Cup. Kerr called the decision “unconscionable” and argued it unfairly influenced the outcome. The Rockets’ Jalen Green sank the decisive free throws, advancing Houston to the semifinals and snapping their 15-game losing streak against the Warriors.
Key Takeaways from Warriors vs. Rockets NBA Cup Game
- Controversial Foul: Jonathan Kuminga’s foul on Jalen Green led to game-winning free throws.
- Kerr’s Criticism: Kerr blasted officiating, calling the call a mistake even an “elementary school referee” wouldn’t make.
- Houston’s Win: Rockets broke a 15-game losing streak against the Warriors, their first win since February 2020.
- Steph Curry Incident: Kerr also criticized the non-call on Curry’s contested jump shot.
- Game Context: A physical, low-scoring match ended with a 91-90 Rockets victory.
Steve Kerr Slams Late Foul Call in Warriors’ NBA Cup Loss to Rockets
Deep Look
The Golden State Warriors’ NBA Cup dreams ended in a contentious 91-90 loss to the Houston Rockets on Wednesday, a game defined by a disputed foul call that left head coach Steve Kerr fuming. The dramatic finish not only eliminated the Warriors but also propelled Houston to the NBA Cup semifinals, snapping a 15-game losing streak against Golden State.
The Controversial Play
With the Warriors holding a slim one-point lead and 11 seconds left, Stephen Curry missed a 3-pointer, but Gary Payton II secured the offensive rebound. Payton’s subsequent turnover allowed Jalen Green to intercept the ball. As Green and Jonathan Kuminga scrambled for possession on the floor, officials called a foul on Kuminga, sending Green to the free-throw line. Green hit both free throws, clinching the Rockets’ victory.
Kerr, visibly frustrated postgame, decried the call as a gross misjudgment.
“That is unconscionable. I mean, I don’t even understand what just happened,” Kerr said.
Kerr’s Criticism of Officiating
In a heated postgame rant, Kerr criticized the officials for inconsistency, particularly their failure to call what he believed was a clear foul on Curry earlier in the game.
“The game was a complete wrestling match. They didn’t call anything. Steph Curry got hit on the elbow plain as day on a jump shot,” Kerr said. “Then you’re going to call a loose ball foul on a jump ball situation with the game on the line?”
Kerr accused the officials of overstepping their role, claiming they should not decide games with questionable calls, particularly in such high-stakes moments.
Officiating Defense
Crew chief Billy Kennedy defended the foul call, explaining:
“The defender makes contact with the neck and shoulder area, warranting a personal foul to be called.”
Despite the explanation, Kerr remained unconvinced, asserting the call denied the Warriors a fair opportunity to defend the final possession.
Historical Context
Houston’s victory marked their first win against Golden State since February 2020, back when James Harden and Russell Westbrook led the team. The win also showcased the growth of the Rockets’ young core, including Green, who thrived under the pressure of a pivotal moment.
Looking Ahead
While the Rockets celebrate advancing to the semifinals, the Warriors are left to grapple with the bitter end to their NBA Cup journey. Kerr’s fiery postgame comments highlight ongoing frustrations with NBA officiating and the challenges of navigating high-pressure games in a competitive tournament format.
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