Kevin Durant Avoids Technical Foul Despite Timeout Request Error
In a captivating matchup on Tuesday, the Oklahoma City Thunder faced the Houston Rockets. This game generated discussions reminiscent of historic sports moments, particularly Chris Webber’s infamous timeout blunder in the 1993 NCAA Men’s Tournament.
Critical Moments in the Game
The game reached a thrilling climax with the score tied at 115 during overtime. With just 2.2 seconds left on the clock, Oklahoma City’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander had his jump shot blocked by Houston’s Tari Eason. Kevin Durant secured the rebound and attempted to call a timeout.
However, the Rockets had exhausted their timeouts. According to the NBA’s 2025-26 Official Rules, specifically Rule No. 12, this situation warrants a technical foul. The rule states that a request for a timeout exceeding the allowed number will be granted, and a technical foul will be assessed. This should have awarded Oklahoma City a free throw and possession of the ball.
Referees’ Decision
Despite the apparent violation, the officials—crew chief Zach Zarba, referee Eric Dalen, and umpire Jason Goldenberg—failed to call a technical foul. Time expired in the first overtime, and the game proceeded into a second overtime.
Thunder players and coach Mark Daigneault expressed their disbelief over the non-call. Gilgeous-Alexander remarked, “Kevin definitely called timeout about three times, verbally and physically with his hands.” He acknowledged that mistakes happen in sports.
Zarba clarified that none of the officials observed Durant signaling for the timeout, which led to the absence of a foul call.
Outcome of the Game
Ultimately, the non-call did not adversely affect the Thunder’s performance. Oklahoma City emerged victorious with a narrow 125-124 win after Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. missed a challenging jumper just before the final buzzer sounded.
This high-stakes game unfolded similarly to historical moments in college basketball. The previous reference to Chris Webber’s mistake highlighted the pressure and intensity prevalent in essential matchups like this one.
The season opener between the Rockets and Thunder not only showcased thrilling basketball but also left a cloud of controversy that will linger in fans’ memories throughout the 2025-26 NBA season.
