Phoenix Suns governor Mat Ishbia publicly sided with star guard Devin Booker on Thursday, using his personal X account to criticize the officiating that followed the team’s 120-107 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 2.
“I am 100% behind Devin Booker here. Last night was not a good look for our league,” Ishbia wrote, referencing Wednesday’s matchup at Paycom Center that put Phoenix in a 2-0 hole.
The owner stressed he was not blaming the defeat on the officials but said the episode raised larger concerns about “respect and accountability.” “If the referees are going to demand respect from the players, as they should, then the players should demand respect from the referees,” he posted, adding that missed calls and perceived disrespect “must be held accountable.”
Booker, typically guarded in his post-game remarks, called the officiating “bad” after the loss and admitted it was the first time in his career he felt compelled to speak out, acknowledging a possible fine. Teammate Dillon Brooks went further, suggesting officials should have to answer questions from reporters and saying the whistle felt one-sided.
Ishbia echoed those objections, writing that “nobody who loves this game enjoyed watching that last night” and calling on the NBA to be “far more aggressive” in addressing similar situations.
On the court, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has powered Oklahoma City through the first two games, allowing the Thunder to dictate pace and seize a commanding series lead. Game 3 shifts to Phoenix, where tensions around officiating now loom over an already critical contest.
Source: Hoops Wire
