Understanding the Overtime Controversy in Rockets vs. Thunder

In a thrilling matchup that concluded with the Oklahoma City Thunder edging out the Houston Rockets 125-124, a late-game moment involving Kevin Durant has raised eyebrows and led to an explanation from NBA referee Zach Zarba.

As the game approached its final moments in overtime, with the score tied at 115-115, Durant, who had just secured a rebound, appeared to signal for a timeout. However, none of the three referees officiating the game recognized his call. Referee Zarba clarified this in the post-game pool report, stating, "None of the three game officials saw Kevin signal that timeout. That's why it wasn't granted before the expiration of time." This lack of recognition meant that, had an official seen the timeout call, a technical foul would have been assessed against the Rockets for exceeding their timeout limit.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, star player for the Thunder, shared his thoughts on the incident after the game, stating, "Kevin definitely called timeout about three times verbally and physically with his hands. I think the refs just missed it. That's life. You make mistakes in life and you move on." His comments reflect the competitive nature of the game and the human element of officiating.

The thrilling finish saw Alperen Şengün scoring a layup to give the Rockets a one-point lead with just 11 seconds remaining in double overtime. But ultimately, Oklahoma City reclaimed the lead through a pair of free throws from Gilgeous-Alexander, who ended the night with an impressive 35 points. The Rockets' hopes of a comeback were dashed when they failed to convert on their final possession, particularly as Durant was sidelined after fouling out. On the night, Durant logged 23 points and nine rebounds while shooting 9-for-16 from the field.