UPDATE: Houston Rockets coach Ime Udoka has unleashed a fierce critique of officiating following his team’s 128-125 overtime loss to the Denver Nuggets on December 4, 2023. He described the game as “the most poorly officiated game I’ve seen in a long time,” igniting a firestorm of controversy in the NBA.
The game featured a staggering 59 free throw attempts between both teams, with Denver’s centers, Nikola Jokic and Jonas Valanciunas, both fouling out. The pivotal moment came with just 2.3 seconds left in regulation, as the Nuggets trailed 117-116. A foul was called on Rockets’ guard Amen Thompson for an incident away from the play, allowing Jamal Murray to sink a free throw that tied the game.
“Most poorly officiated game I’ve seen in a long time,” Udoka stated post-game. “Officials Natalie Sago and Jamahl Ralls have no business being out there.”
In a thrilling finish, the final 1:40 of regulation saw four ties and lead changes, culminating in overtime. The Nuggets surged ahead with a three-pointer from Spencer Jones, leading 124-117, but the Rockets fought back, closing the gap to three points with only 13 seconds left. A missed three-pointer by Alperen Sengun sealed the Rockets’ fate.
Nikola Jokic was stellar, notching 39 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists for his NBA-leading 12th triple-double. Murray added 35 points and was a perfect 14-of-15 from the free-throw line. Sengun led the Rockets with 33 points, 10 assists, and 10 rebounds for his first triple-double of the season.
The defeat marked the Rockets’ third consecutive loss on the road. Meanwhile, the Nuggets, despite being down two starters, moved into sole possession of second place in the Western Conference at 19-6, now 4.5 games behind the Oklahoma City Thunder, who hold the top seed.
As the Rockets regroup, all eyes will be on how they respond to this setback, particularly as they look to address the concerns raised by Udoka regarding officiating ahead of their next matchup. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if this loss ignites a change in Houston’s approach moving forward.
