The Golden State Warriors won a 119-116 thriller against the Phoenix Suns on Saturday night.
Late in the game, Suns forward Dillon Brooks jumped to contest a 3-pointer by Warriors guard Stephen Curry. Instead of making a routine play, Brooks took a swipe at Curry’s abdomen as he landed. Warriors head coach Steve Kerr wasn’t happy about the act.
“We just saw a guy on their team punch Steph in the stomach, premeditated… no ejection for that,” Kerr said. “Two nights later, refs got upset with some words for Draymond. I totally disagree.”
Things were testy between both teams throughout the game. Golden State’s Draymond Green was ejected after an altercation with Suns guard Collin Gillespie. Kerr ripped the officials after the win.
“Apparently you are now allowed to premeditate a punch of any shooter who’s left defenseless. You can take a swing at him and know you’re just going to get a Flagrant 1. So, I don’t know, maybe we’ll do that. But probably not.”
Brooks has a history of making controversial plays that put players in danger. Brooks ran into Gary Payton II while he was dunking in the 2022 Western Conference Semifinals. Payton II fell hard and suffered a fractured left elbow. Brooks was later suspended by the NBA.
“This is a guy who broke Gary’s elbow in the playoffs, clotheslining him with one of the dirtiest plays I’ve ever seen.”
Brooks has been a vital member of the resurgent Suns, averaging 21.7 points, 3.2 rebounds and 1.8 assists this season. But he’s still recognized as an instigator who can cross the line at times.
More NBA news:
- Steph's quote about Klay will bring a tear to Warriors fans
- Joe Mazzulla wants to get a pet wolf
- Steven Adams has the craziest eating habits in the NBA
- Anthony Edwards had an "I'm him" moment vs. Thunder
- We finally know how Michael Jordan really feels about Scottie Pippen
- Cooper Flagg's clutch stats are unprecedented