LeBron James concluded his birthday game with a heated exchange with officials.
He extended his frustration online after the Los Angeles Lakers controversially lost to the Western Conference-leading Minnesota Timberwolves, 108-106. The dispute arose from the officials ruling James’ potentially game-tying basket as a mere two-pointer.
With seconds remaining and the Lakers trailing 107-104, James received a pass from Anthony Davis, retreated to the 3-point line, and made a long basket initially deemed a two-pointer. The officials reviewed the play to determine if James had shot from beyond the 3-point line, ultimately affirming the initial call.
James vehemently disagreed, expressing his displeasure by pointing to the screen and berating the officials. The Lakers, instead of tying the game, fouled Anthony Edwards, failing to attempt another shot. This loss dropped the Lakers to 17-16 for the season and 3-7 since winning the NBA’s in-season tournament.
Upon closer examination of the disputed call, social media circulated a shot seemingly showing space between James’ foot and the 3-point line.
However, a video of his feet shows him moving his weight to the balls of his feet as he jumps off the ground and, crucially, moving the front of his shoes forward a few millimeters.
It’s still really close, but you can see what would make an official uncomfortable turning that basket into a 3-pointer.
James, however, maintained his stance, adamantly arguing from the locker room that it was a 3-pointer. He criticized the call, asserting, “It’s obviously a 3. My foot was behind the line.” He added a humorous touch on Instagram, thanking the NBA for the birthday gift.
In response to James’ criticism, the officials, led by crew chief Tony Brothers, stated that the play was initially ruled a two-point field goal, and after video review, there wasn’t clear and conclusive evidence to overturn it to a three. James might face a fine for his comments, ensuring that the controversy will likely remain in the spotlight in the coming days.
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