UPDATE: Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka launched a fierce critique of officiating following his team’s 128-125 overtime loss to the Denver Nuggets on December 4, 2023. Udoka described the game as “the most poorly officiated game I’ve seen in a long time,” igniting a firestorm of reactions in the basketball community.
The game was marked by an incredible 59 free throw attempts between both teams, leading to the ejection of Denver’s centers, Nikola Jokic and Jonas Valanciunas. However, the pivotal moment came with just 2.3 seconds left in regulation. With the Nuggets trailing 117-116, a foul was called on Amen Thompson for tripping Tim Hardaway Jr. off the ball, allowing Nuggets guard Jamal Murray to sink a crucial free throw and tie the game.
“Just in general, I think, most poorly officiated game I’ve seen in a long time,”
Udoka expressed post-game, taking aim at officials Natalie Sago and Jamahl Ralls. He criticized the inconsistency of calls, claiming, “You’re seeing all kinds of inconsistent calls, and I’m sure we should’ve gotten a few more techs.”
The final minutes of regulation were chaotic, featuring four ties and four lead changes. In overtime, the Nuggets surged to a 124-117 lead with a three-pointer from Spencer Jones. Despite a late push from the Rockets, including a missed 24-foot three-pointer from Alperen Sengun with just 4.9 seconds remaining, Houston couldn’t secure the win.
Jokic dominated the night with 39 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists, marking his NBA-leading 12th triple-double. Murray added 35 points, hitting 14 of 15 free throws. Sengun led the Rockets with 33 points and a triple-double of his own, while Kevin Durant contributed 25 points in a losing effort.
The Rockets have now lost their third consecutive road game and are feeling the strain of their current form. Meanwhile, the Nuggets, down two starters in Aaron Gordon (hamstring) and Christian Braun (ankle), also faced challenges when starting guard Peyton Watson exited early due to a right trunk contusion. This victory solidifies the Nuggets’ position in the Western Conference, now holding sole possession of second place with a record of 19-6.
As the Rockets regroup, all eyes will be on Udoka’s response as the season progresses. Fans are eager to see how the team will adjust and what actions will follow this controversial loss.
