Officiating dictating the outcomes of games is a tough pill to swallow. While the NBA referees have a very difficult job, the nitty gritty moments of the game are where their actions are more profound. More often than not, they get it right. But, when the calls get controversial, the discourse gets harsh. Unfortunately, during the Portland Trail Blazers’ narrow loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, the discussion once again became about the refereeing. However, according to Shaquille O’Neal, the refs got it right this time.

For those in the unknown, head coach Chauncey Billups signaled for a timeout. But, the referee did not see it. As a result, Malcolm Brogdon was called for a double dribble immediately after. A furious Billups burst out, leading to a double technical and an ejection. As a result, the Thunder were able to sneak away with a win.

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Soon after, the Trailblazers organization filed an official complaint with the league. But, according to Shaq, who has Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as his favorite player in the league, the referees did not do anything wrong.

“As a referee, you gotta watch the play. You’re not seeing Chauncey…I don’t know, it didn’t look like Brogdon called timeout to me.” While the rest of the crew was in disbelief over Shaq’s exceptional vision. According to him, the problem was where last year’s 6th Man of the Year was looking. “He ain’t even looking at the refs…Nah, nah, nah…I have to look at you.” 

But, where does the head coach in question stand on the matter?

Despite Shaquille O’Neal disagreeing, Chauncey Billups is convinced he’s right

According to Billups, the entire situation was frustrating to witness as a coach. “I’m at halfcourt trying to call a timeout. It’s a frustrating play. My guys play too hard for that.” However, he did believe that he could have done a better job of controlling himself.

“They didn’t deserve for the game to end like that. I feel bad for putting us in that position.” Ultimately, it was the technically free throws that became the difference maker in an otherwise tight contest.

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Perhaps, with a correct call, or even a non-reaction, the outcome would have been different. Who do you think is in the right? Billups or the refs?

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