Why Suns owner believes Game 2 loss to OKC should be a significant moment for the NBA
TL;DR
The Phoenix Suns lost 120-107 to the Oklahoma City Thunder, marking their second away defeat in the series. Post-game discussions focused on controversial officiating decisions that frustrated Suns players, including Devin Booker.
Key points
- Suns lost 120-107 to Thunder in Game 2
- This was the Suns' second away defeat in the series
- Officiating decisions became a major talking point
- Devin Booker questioned the referees' performance
Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images
The Phoenix Suns fell to a 120-107 defeat against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday, losing their second away game in the series. The result leaves them under pressure as the matchup shifts.
After the game, attention quickly turned to officiating. Several decisions became talking points, with frustration building among Suns players during and after the contest.
Devin Booker openly questioned the referees’ performance post-match, and his words added to an ongoing narrative regarding OKC.
Mat Ishbia backs Devin Booker after officiating controversy in defeat to OKC
Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images
Suns’ owner Mat Ishbia publicly supported Booker’s stance, addressing the situation on X following the loss.
He wrote: “I am 100% behind Devin Booker here. Last night was not a good look for our league. Let me be clear, we didn’t lose because of officiating, but that doesn’t make last night any less important.
“If the referees are going to demand respect from the players – as they should – then the players should demand respect from the referees. When a referee is missing calls and clearly disrespecting the players, almost mocking them, they must be held accountable.”
The businessman then added: “Nobody who loves this game enjoyed watching that last night. They want to see the players compete at the highest level. The league needs to be far more aggressive about this kind of thing. All players and all fans deserve it.”
Another of the Suns’ important figures, Dillon Brooks, also criticised the style of officiating, describing the experience of guarding Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as difficult under current interpretations.
Brooks argued that modern calls differ significantly from previous eras, pointing to what he sees as increased influence from contact and free throws.
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Q&A
What was the score of the Suns vs. Thunder Game 2?
The Phoenix Suns lost to the Oklahoma City Thunder with a score of 120-107.
Why did Devin Booker criticize the referees after the game?
Devin Booker criticized the referees due to several controversial officiating decisions that frustrated the Suns during the match.
How does the Suns' loss impact their series against the Thunder?
The Suns' loss puts them under pressure as they have now lost two away games in the series against the Thunder.
