UPDATE: Houston Rockets coach Ime Udoka fiercely criticized the officiating following his team’s 128-125 overtime loss to the Denver Nuggets on December 4, 2023, calling it “the most poorly officiated game I’ve seen in a long time.”
The game was packed with tension, featuring a combined 59 free throw attempts from both teams, leading to the ejection of both of Denver’s centers, Nikola Jokic and Jonas Valanciunas. The most controversial moment came with just 2.3 seconds left in regulation when a foul was called on Rockets’ player Amen Thompson, allowing Nuggets’ point guard Jamal Murray to make a critical free throw that tied the game at 117-117.
Udoka did not hold back in his post-game comments, stating, “Officials Natalie Sago and Jamahl Ralls have no business being out there… you’re seeing all kind of inconsistent calls.” His frustration highlights the emotional stakes of the game, where four ties and lead changes occurred in the final 1:40 of regulation.
During the overtime period, the Nuggets surged ahead with a 124-117 lead after a three-pointer from Spencer Jones at 2:59 left. The Rockets fought back but fell short, with Alperen Sengun missing a crucial three-point shot in the closing seconds.
“It’s a physical game,” Murray said post-game. “I think they missed some calls on our end, and they missed some calls on their end, so I don’t really think that was an issue tonight.”
Jokic delivered an outstanding performance, finishing with 39 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists—his 12th triple-double of the season. Murray complemented him with 35 points, making 14 of 15 free throws. Meanwhile, Sengun led the Rockets with 33 points, 10 assists, and 10 rebounds for his first triple-double of the season.
The loss marks the Rockets’ third consecutive defeat on the road, further complicating their season as they struggle with consistency. The Nuggets, already missing two starters due to injuries, improved to 19-6, securing sole possession of second place in the Western Conference, 4.5 games behind the Oklahoma City Thunder for the top seed.
This electrifying matchup underscores the high stakes of the NBA season, with both teams vying for playoff positioning. As the Rockets regroup from this loss, all eyes will be on their next game and whether they can bounce back from this controversial defeat.
