The Trail Blazers File a Major Protest Against the NBA

The NBA is set for turbulence as the Portland Trail Blazers formally protest a recent loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, according to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.

Coach Chauncey Billups, ejected after a controversial double-dribble call against Malcolm Brogdon with a slim 109-108 lead and 15.6 seconds remaining, claims he was attempting to call a timeout. The frustrated coach highlights the team's preparation for such situations and expresses disappointment in the referees' handling of the critical moment.

The subsequent free throw by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander tied the game, ultimately leading to Jalen Williams securing victory for the Thunder with a last-second jumper.


Wojnarowski reports that crew chief Bill Kennedy defended the call, explaining the difficulty in hearing Billups due to the referee's focus on the action in front of him. Kennedy emphasizes adherence to refereeing protocols and the correct handling of the double dribble situation.

Filing a protest incurs a $10,000 fee, refundable if successful. The NBA has historically upheld protests only six times, as reported by ESPN. This protest coincides with the NBA's acknowledgment of ten incorrect calls in the final two minutes of a Charlotte-Minnesota game on the same day.

Source: Sportsnet