NBA Admits to Incorrect Calls in Nuggets-Rockets Game
The National Basketball Association (NBA) has acknowledged that officials made three incorrect calls in the last two minutes of overtime in the Denver Nuggets’ 128-125 win over the Houston Rockets on December 16, 2025. All three calls favored the Nuggets, sparking controversy and criticism from the Rockets’ head coach, Ime Udoka.
Udoka expressed his dissatisfaction with the officiating, stating that the referees had “no business being out there” and that crew chief Zach Zarba was “acting star struck.” He further emphasized that it was the “most poorly officiated game” he had seen in a long time. The NBA’s Last Two Minute Report supported Udoka’s claims, highlighting specific instances where the officials erred.
The report revealed that fouls against the Rockets’ Kevin Durant and Amen Thompson should not have been called, while one against Denver’s Tim Hardaway Jr. should have been. Notably, Durant was called for a foul after blocking Nikola Jokic’s shot attempt with 1:40 left in overtime, which gave Jokic two free throws and put the Nuggets up 126-121. However, the NBA deemed it a clean block.
Additionally, with just over one minute left, Hardaway got away with a shove of Alperen Sengun that should have resulted in a loose ball foul, according to the report. Furthermore, with 47 seconds left and the Nuggets up 126-122, Thompson should not have been called for a personal foul against Jamal Murray on a steal attempt, resulting in two free throws for Murray.
One crucial call that was not reviewed by the report was a foul against Thompson for tripping Hardaway, which resulted in a tying free throw for the Nuggets in the waning seconds of regulation. Although it was challenged by Houston during the game and upheld upon review, it remains a point of contention.
Officiating Controversy
The incident has sparked a wider debate about officiating in the NBA, with some arguing that the league needs to improve its refereeing standards. The NBA’s admission of errors in the Nuggets-Rockets game highlights the importance of accurate officiating in ensuring fair play and maintaining the integrity of the game.
As the NBA continues to evolve, it is essential for the league to prioritize officiating excellence, leveraging technology and training to minimize errors and promote a more consistent and trustworthy refereeing process. By doing so, the NBA can maintain the trust of its fans, players, and coaches, ultimately enhancing the overall basketball experience.
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The NBA’s commitment to transparency and accountability in officiating is a step in the right direction. By acknowledging and learning from mistakes, the league can work towards creating a more just and enjoyable game for all involved. As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how the NBA addresses officiating concerns and implements changes to improve the overall quality of the game.
