The Reason for SGA’s Foul Call in the Final Sequence of Game 6 Defeat

Canadian basketball star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander found himself at the center of a controversial call that ultimately led to a season-ending loss for his Oklahoma City Thunder against the Dallas Mavericks. In a crucial moment of Game 6, with the Thunder holding a slim 116-115 lead, Gilgeous-Alexander was called for a foul on a three-point attempt by Mavericks’ P.J. Washington.

Despite the Thunder challenging the ruling and providing evidence that Gilgeous-Alexander had initially touched the ball before making contact with Washington, the foul was upheld. Head official Tony Brothers explained that according to the NBA rulebook, the contact made by Gilgeous-Alexander on Washington’s arm while he was in the act of shooting constituted an illegal foul.

Washington capitalized on the opportunity, sinking two free throws to give the Mavericks a 117-116 lead. Although he missed the final shot, the Mavericks secured a 4-2 series victory, ending the Thunder’s season.

Gilgeous-Alexander took responsibility for the foul, acknowledging that he should not have made the mistake in such a crucial moment. Despite the disappointing end to the season, the Canadian star put in a stellar performance, scoring a playoff-high 36 points and dishing out eight assists.

With the Thunder now out of the playoffs, Gilgeous-Alexander and teammate Lu Dort will shift their focus to the Paris Olympics, where they will aim to lead Team Canada to success on the international stage.