Former Heisman Winner Takes Subtle Shot At Shai-Gilgeous Alexander As ‘Flopping’ Controversy Sets Fans Abuzz

The conversation around flopping in the NBA is increasing day by day, and now a former Heisman Trophy winner has jumped right into the middle of the conversation. Robert Griffin III didn’t directly name whom he was referring to, but his timing seems suspicious.

Just days after Shai Gilgeous-Alexander went viral for a controversial play during Game 1, Griffin took to social media with a blunt message: “Flopping is ruining the game of basketball.”

The backlash toward Gilgeous-Alexander picked up after a widely circulated clip showed multiple possessions where the Thunder star appeared to exaggerate contact. The dramatic falls, head snaps, and reactions had fans arguing that the whole play was designed to draw fouls rather than finish the game.

Despite the controversy the Oklahoma City Thunder won against the Los Angeles Lakers by 108-90, taking a 1-0 series lead.

Fans didn’t hold back and some labeled him “Shai Flops Alexander,” while others questioned his playing style. In the past Gilgeous-Alexander has been called the “free throw merchant” tag due to his ability to create and sell contact to bait officials.

RGIII’s Comment Adds Fuel to the Controversy

While Griffin didn’t explicitly call out SGA, the timing aligned perfectly with the controversy. And given the conversation around foul-baiting in the NBA, fans took it as a subtle jab.

The reactions under his tweet showed growing frustration.

“The officiating began the spiral.” one wrote.

“The game has been ruined for many years.” another user wrote.

“The game is already cooked. Flopping, over reliance on 3 pointers & lazy defense destroyed it years ago.” another pointed out.

“Where’s your love for basketball? No sense of competition. No hunger for improvement.” one wrote.

“Lack of honor to the games tradition,” another added.

What makes the debate even more interesting is that Gilgeous-Alexander didn’t play that well in Game 1, he finished with only 18 points and seven turnovers while attempting just three free throws.

An MVP finalist and one of the league’s most efficient scorers, SGA just lost support from NBA fans after this one mistake.

Whether SGA can gain trust from fans back or whether he continues to get boos in the game, time will only tell. Right now the team is leading 2-0 against the Lakers and the next match is going to be on May 10.