If you’re a fan of the Oklahoma City Thunder, you probably noticed something peculiar during their intense Western Conference Finals run against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Nope, it’s not a new move from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, it’s the not-so-subtle silence (and occasional eyebrow-raising commentary) from ESPN’s Doris Burke. Yes, that Doris Burke — the trailblazing NBA analyst who’s been around since the early ’90s, breaking glass ceilings and breaking down plays like nobody else.

But lately? Some Thunder fans are wondering if Doris is taking a page out of the “silent treatment” playbook, especially when their team goes on a run. And no, it’s not because she’s captivated by Shai’s killer handles or Luguentz Dort’s defense. There’s more to this story — and it’s been stirring up a pot hotter than a Steph Curry step-back three in crunch time.

Let’s rewind to Game 4 of the Thunder-Timberwolves series. The Thunder are battling hard, but Doris throws out a comment referencing the centuries-old rivalry between France and Germany. Why? Because Rudy Gobert (French) was going head-to-head with Isaiah Hartenstein, who has German roots. She casually says, “And I don’t know much about history, but I know the French and German don’t like one another. And Rudy says, ‘Bonjour, Mr. Hartenstein!’ Have a little bit of that left-handed dunk!”

Cue co-commentator Mike Breen’s slightly confused pause and the internet’s collective eyebrow raise. Seriously, it felt like we were watching a history lesson disguised as an NBA broadcast. That’s like dropping a Cold War reference every time the Celtics and Lakers play — confusing, unnecessary, and just a bit weird. But wait, there’s more.

Doris also dubbed Thunder superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander a “free throw merchant.” Now, Shai’s been killing it this postseason — averaging MVP-level stats and carrying OKC on his back — so calling him a “merchant” of anything made some fans see red. To them, it sounded like she was downplaying his skills, as if saying, “Yeah, he only gets points because he trips and falls at the line.” Not exactly the compliment Shai deserved.

Throw in the fact that some fans think Doris has a history of bias, especially towards teams like the Lakers and Warriors — and you’ve got a cocktail that’s been shaking up social media and NBA fan forums.

Fan Reactions: The Good, The Bad, and The Hilarious

Alright, let’s get into the fan reactions, because the NBA fandom never disappoints when it comes to roasting commentators.

“Anytime she is quiet is a good time !!” This one’s from a Thunder fan who clearly enjoys the calm more than the commentary storm. Doris Burke has been a prominent figure since 1990, bringing decades of basketball wisdom to the mic. But sometimes, when the Thunder hit a scoring run, Doris goes radio silent — almost like a referee forgetting to blow the whistle on a clear foul. Some fans actually prefer this quieter vibe, feeling that her in-depth breakdowns can occasionally feel like a dissertation in the middle of a fast break. For them, silence is golden, like a clutch block in the final seconds.

“She should strictly become a Minnesota broadcaster at this point. She has no business being on a national televised network if she’s going to fangirl for one team.” This one’s a spicy take from a frustrated Thunder supporter. The comment comes after Doris’s remarks during the Timberwolves matchup, which some interpreted as favoring the home team. Remember that “French and German” history lesson? Yeah, that didn’t sit well with fans who felt she was bending over backwards for the Timberwolves’ narrative. Add to that the repeated “free throw merchant” tag on Shai, and it feels like Doris was broadcasting from Minneapolis, not from the national ESPN booth. Fans want neutral ground, not a home team cheerleader.

“She has had absolutely no idea what to say throughout this first half. The silence has been deafening.” Doris Burke is known for her sharp analysis and eloquent breakdowns, usually. But this comment captures the frustration some viewers feel when her energy dips. So much so that this next user couldn’t help but note, “I thought she left the broadcast earlier [laughing emoji with tears].“

During intense moments, you want your commentator to be fired up, right? To feel the game’s pulse. But sometimes Doris’ more measured, thoughtful approach comes off as disengagement — like a point guard who suddenly forgets how to call plays. Fans want that adrenaline boost in commentary, not a lull that’s quieter than a Kevin Durant jumper in the fourth quarter.

“I’m convinced she put a pretty penny on Minny.” Okay, this one is pure fan conspiracy theory gold. While sports broadcasters are strictly forbidden from betting on games they cover — for obvious integrity reasons — some fans jokingly suggest Doris’ apparent Timberwolves favoritism means she’s got some skin in the game. Imagine that: Doris Burke as the secret Timberwolves hedge fund manager! Of course, there’s zero evidence for this — just a testament to how passionate (and sarcastic) NBA fans can get when they smell bias. Betting or no betting, fans expect broadcasters to keep it 100% impartial.

Look, no one’s denying that Doris Burke has made history as the first woman to serve as a full-time NBA game analyst on national TV. Her basketball IQ is legendary, and she’s helped elevate sports broadcasting to new heights. But with great power comes great responsibility, and in the age of social media, even one awkward comment or perceived bias can explode fast. So, what’s next for Doris Burke?

Will she tone down the quirky historical references and the “free throw merchant” labels? Probably. After all, the NBA is a fast-paced, high-energy sport, and fans deserve commentary that matches that intensity, with a side of fairness and a sprinkle of fun. For the Oklahoma City Thunder and their loyal fans, the focus remains on the court. But in the broadcast booth, the curious case of Doris Burke’s quiet moments and occasional bias will surely keep Twitter buzzing like a packed arena after a buzzer-beater.

At the end of the day, Doris remains one of the most respected voices in basketball. But even legends need to remember: when the Thunder go on a run, sometimes the best play is just to let the ball do the talking — and keep the commentary flowing like a Damian Lillard deep three.