Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green once again found himself at the center of controversy during Friday’s 123-118 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies in the NBA Cup. In a game marked by intense moments and questionable decisions, Green’s antics and subsequent ejection overshadowed the team’s hard-fought win.
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The most contentious moment came in the third quarter, with 7:06 remaining. While chasing a loose ball, Green hooked rookie center Zach Edey’s foot, tripping him in the backcourt. The incident, captured by CJ Fogler on social media, sparked outrage from the Grizzlies and their head coach, Taylor Jenkins.
“Very disappointing there was that one play,” Jenkins said postgame. “We were about to start the break, and he’s been playing really hard to try to outlet, and Draymond grabs his leg and pulls him down, and it doesn’t get reviewed. … I don’t understand how that wasn’t reviewed. Very disappointing.”
Edey echoed his coach’s sentiments, calling Green’s actions “definitely not a basketball play.”
Green Ejected After Heated Moments
The tension boiled over late in the game when Green received two technical fouls within 33 seconds. He first argued a call with officials and continued his tirade from the bench, ultimately earning a second technical and an ejection.
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr admitted that Green’s behavior crossed a line, stating, “Whether intentional or not, Green’s play was dirty.”
Kerr’s Apology to Fans
Kerr, visibly frustrated, apologized to Warriors fans for the game’s “disgusting” display. “The last quarter, the last half was disgusting,” Kerr said. “I felt bad for our fans having to watch that – what transpired.”
He drew parallels to a previous incident in the 2022 playoffs when Dillon Brooks fouled Gary Payton II, fracturing his elbow. “There is a code that players follow,” Kerr said. “You never put a guy’s season or career in jeopardy.”
Warriors Secure a Win Despite Chaos
Despite the drama, the Warriors emerged victorious, improving to a 10-2 record in the NBA Cup. However, the victory was overshadowed by Green’s actions and the broader conversation about sportsmanship and the so-called “code” of conduct in the NBA.
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