Tensions ran high after the Phoenix Suns fell 120–107 to the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 2, as multiple Suns players openly criticized the officiating, particularly referee James Williams.
Devin Booker, in a rare public outburst, called the officiating “terrible” and damaging to the integrity of the game, even comparing it to WWE-style entertainment. His frustration centered on a technical foul he received and what he felt was a lack of respect.
Teammate Dillon Brooks echoed those concerns, arguing that the game was being overly influenced by foul calls, especially those benefiting Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Gilgeous-Alexander scored 37 points and frequently got to the free-throw line, which Brooks suggested disrupted the physical nature expected in playoff basketball.
Gilgeous-Alexander dismissed the complaints, saying he focuses only on winning and acknowledging Brooks’ role as an agitator. The game also featured multiple heated moments, including trash talk between Brooks and Gilgeous-Alexander and a brief altercation involving Luguentz Dort that led to double technical fouls.
Despite knowing he could face a fine, Booker stood by his comments, saying the situation “needed” to be addressed as concerns about officiating continue to grow during the series, now led 2–0 by Oklahoma City.