By Samuel Adeola
Houston Rockets coach Ime Udoka criticised the referees after his team’s 128-125 overtime loss to the Denver Nuggets on Monday night, describing it as “the most poorly officiated game” he has seen in a long time.
The physical contest saw both teams combine for 59 free throws, with Denver’s Nikola Jokic and Jonas Valanciunas fouling out.
Controversy peaked late in regulation when Amen Thompson was called for an off-ball foul on Tim Hardaway Jr. with 2.3 seconds left and Denver trailing 117-116.
Houston’s challenge failed, and Jamal Murray sank the free throw to force overtime.
Udoka complained of inconsistent officiating, though Murray dismissed the claims, saying missed calls went both ways.
After four ties and four lead changes in the final 1:40 of regulation, Denver took control in overtime, opening a 124-117 lead.
Houston rallied but Alperen Sengun missed a potential tying shot late, allowing the Nuggets to hold on.
Jokic led Denver with 39 points, 15 rebounds and 10 assists for his NBA-leading 12th triple-double, while Murray added 35 points.
Sengun recorded 33 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists for Houston, with Kevin Durant contributing 25 points.
The win lifted Denver to 19-6, second in the Western Conference, despite missing key players, while Houston suffered its third straight road loss.
