Phoenix Star Slams Referees After Another Playoff Loss to Oklahoma

Pulse Sports Team 09:54 - 23 April 2026

The Phoenix Suns are in a tough spot! Following their 120-107 loss to Oklahoma and falling behind 0-2 in the series, the team's top star, Devin Booker, decided to break his silence. For the first time in his 11-year career, the five-time All-Star publicly called out the officials, fully aware of the severe penalty he faces from the NBA.

Devin Booker was incensed by the officiating, specifically targeting referee James Williams, stating that such decisions directly undermine the integrity of basketball.

The situation escalated at the end of the third quarter with the Thunder leading 93-75. Booker was thrown off his game by a bizarre call: after being fouled while attempting to save the ball, officials reviewed the play and inexplicably reversed their decision, instead calling a foul on him, followed by a technical foul!

What exactly transpired? Booker claims the referees succumbed to pressure from an opposing player.

"This definitely needs to be looked into. I heard Alex Caruso tell the refs to give me a technical, and he (James Williams) did it! In 11 years, I've never called out a referee by name, but James Williams was abysmal tonight, from start to finish," Booker fumed during the post-game press conference.

The Suns' guard didn't mince words, emphasizing that the league is veering towards a "fixed" spectacle if officials aren't held accountable.

"This is bad for the sport, bad for the integrity of basketball. People will start viewing the NBA like the WWE if no one is held responsible for these kinds of mistakes. I feel like we're not being respected. I know I don't have a ring yet, but I've been in this league for 11 years and I deserve better treatment," the Phoenix star declared.

Despite his efforts to be a model professional until now, Booker stated he's reached his breaking point.

"This is the first time in 11 years I've spoken like this, but it was necessary. Whatever happens, let them fine me, I don't care. Anyone can watch the replays and see where this frustration comes from," concluded Booker, who finished the game with 22 points (7/14 shooting), seven rebounds, and four assists.

The Suns now have three days to regroup before the series shifts to Arizona. Game 3 is scheduled for Saturday, and thanks to Booker, the atmosphere has already reached a boiling point.