How Timberwolves coach Chris Finch reacted to Tony Brothers confronting him

Photo by Carlos Gonzalez/The Minnesota Star Tribune via Getty Images

Chris Finch did not hold back when addressing his heated exchange with veteran NBA referee Tony Brothers, calling the moment both avoidable and unprofessional.

The Timberwolves head coach found himself at the center of one of the most intense officiating confrontations of the playoffs, with the situation escalating quickly during a crucial stretch of the game.

For Finch, the issue was not just the call. It was how it was handled.

Photo by Nic Antaya/Getty Images

Chris Finch calls Tony Brothers’ behavior ‘unprofessional’ after timeout incident

Speaking during the postgame interview, Finch explained exactly what led to the confrontation.

“Pretty unprofessional, huh? I wanted the timeout. I had called it 3 seconds earlier and I wanted the timeout,” Finch said.

He added, “I said ‘I want my 3 seconds back,’… because he clearly heard me. He looked my way, ignored me, went on with the play and almost cost us a turnover. So, and then you know, he lost it.”

Finch’s frustration centered on what he believed was a clear missed timeout call, something that could have directly impacted possession in a tight playoff game.

But the moment did not stop there. It escalated.

What happened between Chris Finch and Tony Brothers during the game

The incident took place late in the fourth quarter, when Finch signaled for a timeout as his team struggled to control the ball. According to his account, referee Tony Brothers saw the request but delayed the whistle by roughly three seconds, allowing play to continue and nearly resulting in a turnover.