UPDATE: Houston Rockets coach Ime Udoka unleashed 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 controversy over critical calls that influenced the outcome.
The game was marked by an astonishing 59 free throw attempts combined by both teams, leading to a tense atmosphere as Denver’s centers, Nikola Jokic and Jonas Valanciunas, both fouled out. The pivotal moment arose with just 2.3 seconds left in regulation, where a foul was called on Rockets’ Amen Thompson, allowing Nuggets’ Jamal Murray to tie the game with a free throw.
Udoka did not hold back his frustration during the post-game interview, stating, “
Officials Natalie Sago and Jamahl Ralls have no business being out there, and crew chief Zach Zarba was acting starstruck. You’re seeing all kind of inconsistent calls, and I’m sure we should’ve gotten a few more techs.
” His passionate response reflects the emotional intensity of a tightly contested match that saw four ties and lead changes within the final 1:40 of regulation.
Despite the controversy, Jokic delivered a stellar performance, finishing with 39 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists, marking his NBA-leading 12th triple-double. Murray supported him with 35 points, going 14-of-15 from the free-throw line.
In the overtime period, Denver surged ahead with a crucial three-pointer from Spencer Jones, taking a 124-117 lead. Houston fought back but fell short. Alperen Sengun led the Rockets with 33 points, 10 assists, and 10 rebounds, recording his first triple-double of the season.
The Rockets’ loss marks their third consecutive defeat on the road, as they grapple with the absence of key players. Meanwhile, the Nuggets, already missing starters Aaron Gordon and Christian Braun, played without starting guard Peyton Watson due to a right trunk contusion suffered early in the game.
This victory places the Nuggets in sole possession of second place in the Western Conference at 19-6, trailing 4.5 games behind the Oklahoma City Thunder for the top seed. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on how both teams respond to this heated matchup and the implications it holds for their playoff aspirations.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story, as the fallout from this controversial game continues to spark debate among fans and analysts alike.
