Referees picked by the NBA for Game 7 are James Capers, Josh Tiven, Sean Wright
Capers, Tiven and Wright were announced by the NBA as the officiating crew for Game 7 of the NBA Finals between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Indiana Pacers. It's the first Game 7 of a finals for all three, who are now the 22nd, 23rd and 24th referees in NBA history to land such an assignment.
'Being selected to work the NBA Finals is the top honor as an NBA official," Byron Spruell, the NBA's president of league operations, said earlier this month when the 12-person list of finals referees was revealed.
And Game 7, one would think, is the top of the top honors.
Scott Foster, a two-time Game 7 finals referee and generally considered one of the best in the game, was not picked for the crew. Had he been, he would have become the seventh referee picked to work at least three Game 7s in the title series. The referees in NBA history who have worked that many are Mendy Rudolph , Earl Strom , Sid Borgia , Dan Crawford , Joe Crawford and Richie Powers .
Foster — who is frequently criticized online by fans — was defended by Indiana coach Rick Carlisle after Game 4, notable because it was a game that the Pacers lost.
'As far as officiating, I think it's awful some of the things I've seen about the officiating, and Scott Foster in particular,' Carlisle said before Game 5. 'I've known Scott Foster for 30 years. He is a great official. He has done a great job in these playoffs. We've had him a lot of times. The ridiculous scrutiny that is being thrown out there is terrible and unfair and unjust and stupid.'
The NBA had 75 full-time officials this season and 36 of those were selected to work the first round of the playoffs. The officiating roster is further trimmed going into each playoff round, with the league's referee operations management team determining who should advance.
Capers is working his 13th finals, Tiven his sixth and Wright is in the finals for only the second time. It's the second game of these finals for all three referees — Capers worked Indiana's win in Game 3, while Wright and Tiven were both on the crew for Oklahoma City's win in Game 4.
James Williams, who worked Games 2 and 5 of the series, was picked as the alternate for Game 7. David Guthrie, who officiated Games 1 and 6, was the referee assigned to the replay center in Secaucus, New Jersey, for Game 7.
Thunder coach Mark Daigneault addressed officiating — and how he and his team respect referees — from a general perspective Saturday, when asked how his team has avoided being called for very many technical fouls this season.
'The outcome of the game and the context of the game is outside of our control,' Daigneault said. 'In between the lines is inside our control. The referees in that category, too. We can't control how they call the game and what they put a whistle on and what they don't. We can control a lot of other things in the game, and that's what we need to focus on.'
NBA: /hub/NBA
This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers Urged to Acquire $48 Million Boston Celtics Star to Bolster Frontcourt Depth; Maxi Kleber Key Trade Asset?
Luka Doncic of the Los Angeles Lakers (Image via Getty) The Los Angeles Lakers are actively reshaping their roster around stars Luka Doncic and LeBron James , and with free agency well underway, their recent moves suggest a clear push toward defense, depth, and chemistry. However, one NBA analyst believes there's still one more move the Lakers should make - part ways with Maxi Kleber and bring in Marcus Smart's former Boston Celtics teammate, Robert Williams III. Marcus Smart Joins Los Angeles Lakers - Thanks in Part to Luka Earlier this week, the Los Angeles Lakers made headlines by signing defensive specialist Marcus Smart. The deal gives Los Angeles a major upgrade in perimeter defense. According to The Athletic's Dan Woike, Luka Doncic reportedly played a role in facilitating Smart's addition to the team, showing his growing influence within the franchise's front office decisions. Smart, known for his gritty play and leadership, immediately becomes a vocal anchor in the Lakers' backcourt. But for some, the story shouldn't end there. Robert Williams III: The Ideal Reunion Target Analyst Caleb Hightower suggests that the Los Angeles Lakers should look to reunite Smart with Robert Williams III, his former teammate in Boston. 'Before the offseason ends, though, the Lakers should cut ties with a 6-foot-10 forward and reunite Smart with his 27-year-old former Boston Celtics teammate,' writes Hightower. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Struggling With Belly Fat? Try This at Home Home Fitness Hack Shop Now Undo Williams, now with the Portland Trail Blazers, spent five productive seasons with Smart in Boston. The duo developed a strong on-court connection, especially during Boston's 2021–22 NBA Finals run. Robert Williams III: Career-Best Season (2021–22) Robert Williams (Image via Getty) Stat Category Value Points Per Game 10.0 Rebounds Per Game 9.7 Blocks Per Game 2.2 Field Goal % 73.6% Williams thrived during that campaign, bringing energy, elite shot-blocking, and rim-running ability — attributes the current Lakers bench lacks at the center position. Why the Los Angeles Lakers Should Consider Trading Maxi Kleber Maxi Kleber, while a solid rotational big man, has struggled with consistency and health in recent seasons. By moving Kleber, along with guard Gabe Vincent and a future second-round pick, the Los Angeles Lakers could potentially land Williams and enhance their interior presence behind Deandre Ayton. Proposed Trade Package To Portland To Los Angeles Maxi Kleber Robert Williams III Gabe Vincent Future 2nd-round pick This move would free up cap flexibility and bring in a center who already shares chemistry with Smart. Moreover, Williams' relentless motor and defensive instincts make him an ideal fit alongside elite playmakers like Doncic and James. Concerns Around Williams' Injury History Despite his potential, Robert Williams comes with notable injury concerns. Since leaving Boston after the 2022–23 season, the 27-year-old has only managed to appear in 26 regular-season games across two years in Portland. His health has become a recurring issue, raising valid questions about his long-term durability. Still, for a team seeking championship contention, calculated risks are often part of the process. Robert Williams: Risk vs. Reward Pros • Elite rim protector • Strong chemistry with Marcus Smart • High field goal percentage and energy • Proven playoff experience Cons • History of injuries • Limited availability • Could require load management Reuniting Marcus Smart and Robert Williams III could give the Los Angeles Lakers a defensive identity that hasn't been seen in years. While Williams isn't a guaranteed game-changer due to his health, his upside and history with Smart make him a compelling target. The Lakers have already started - adding Williams might be the next smart step in completing the puzzle. Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Golden State Warriors Target $35.25 Million Toronto Raptors Big Man as Al Horford Backup Plan As Caleb Hightower points out, it's a reunion that 'would not pair Smart with a familiar face, but also give the Los Angeles Lakers a more proven backup center option.' That's a trade worth exploring before the offseason window closes. For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
NBA Trade Rumors: Golden State Warriors Target $35.25 Million Toronto Raptors Big Man as Al Horford Backup Plan
Golden State Warriors at Chicago Bulls (Image via Imagn) The Golden State Warriors are actively scouting alternatives as veteran Al Horford considers retirement and restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga remains unsigned. With Kevon Looney's departure to the New Orleans Pelicans, Golden State faces mounting pressure to reinforce its frontcourt—and one name rising to the top is 2-time NBA champion Chris Boucher . Uncertainty Surrounding Horford and Kuminga The Golden State Warriors have been eyeing 39-year-old Al Horford as a replacement for Looney, hoping his experience and leadership can help stabilize the team's interior defense. However, Kuminga's unresolved contract situation has complicated the process. Golden State is hesitant to finalize any deals before resolving Kuminga's holdout, which has become a key bottleneck in their offseason plans. ClutchPoints insider Brett Siegel shed light on the situation: 'The main reason Horford and Melton, or any other player, have yet to sign with the Warriors is because of Kuminga's holdout,' Siegel wrote Friday. (H/t: Sporting News) Chris Boucher (Image via Getty) Horford's uncertain status, with retirement reportedly on the table, adds another layer of complexity. If Horford chooses to walk away from the game or sign elsewhere, the Golden State Warriors are already considering contingency plans. Backup Options in the Wings: Chris Boucher and Trey Lyles Should Horford opt out, the Golden State Warriors have two primary candidates lined up: 1. Chris Boucher 2. Trey Lyles While both are currently waiting in free agency, Golden State seems to be the only team linked to Al Horford at this stage, especially after the conclusion of Summer League. Why Chris Boucher Fits the Golden State Warriors' System Chris Boucher stands out as a high-upside option due to his offensive versatility. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Up to 70% off | Libas Purple Days Sale Libas Undo The 32-year-old forward, listed at 6-foot-9, has steadily grown into a modern NBA big man with a reliable shooting stroke and solid ball-handling ability. Chris Boucher's 2023-24 Season Stats Games Played Points Per Game Rebounds Per Game 3PT% 3PA (Carrer High) 50 10.0 4.5 36.3% 3.9 Boucher's shooting range and agility could make him an ideal fit for the Warriors' motion-heavy offense. He isn't known for defensive dominance like Horford, but his ability to space the floor would complement Stephen Curry and help create more driving lanes and scoring opportunities. Trey Lyles: Another Viable Option Trey Lyles, a 10-year veteran, is also in the conversation. Known for his catch-and-shoot ability, Lyles would give the Golden State Warriors a different type of offensive tool—less dynamic off the dribble but more suited for spot-up shooting. Still, between the two, Boucher's all-around skillset may align better with Golden State's system. What's Next for Golden State? As Golden State navigates this turbulent offseason, the franchise must first resolve Kuminga's holdout before making any major roster decisions. But in the event that Horford declines their offer or retires, fans should expect swift movement on Boucher or Lyles. Brett Siegel summed it up best: 'Until Horford signs, these two are forced to wait in free agency.' Also read: NBA Free Agency Rumors: New York Knicks predicted to land $50 million Orlando Magic star to boost bench depth and improve title odds The clock is ticking, and the Golden State Warriors are clearly not sitting idle. Whether it's Horford, Boucher, or Lyles, Golden State appears determined to plug the void left by Looney and set itself up for a bounce-back campaign. For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Time of India
3 hours ago
- Time of India
Nick Young breaks silence on D'Angelo Russell's alleged cheating scandal with wild and cryptic comments
Nick Young is a phenomenal player (Image via Getty Images) D'Angelo Russell recently landed in serious jeopardy after a woman shared a slew of texts she exchanged with someone else. She claimed that she has been texting with the NBA star. He reportedly asked her to fly to Miami for him while she was in Atlanta, according to the messages. Meanwhile, Nick Young, a former NBA player, recently weighed in on this. He gave a casual street interview where he opened up about his feelings regarding D'Angelo Russell's alleged cheating scandal. Nick Young's bizarre remarks stir buzz amid D'Angelo Russell's alleged cheating controversy During the same interview, Nick Young was asked how he felt about everything. While talking about D'Angelo Russell , he said: 'Oh man. What can I say? You know, God answers all prayers, you know. That's how I mean Jaw Morant.. She's the GOAT. You know, shout-out to Swaggy Nation, people who have been riding with me from day one. Just send me your cash at Jaw Morant.' He continued: 'You know, I love what you're doing, man. One of the marks was one of my real ones. She did it for Swaggy. No, she says she looks out over 5k, you know. Man, you feel me? I got you because you ain't going to see normal money. So I got you…' Nick Young concluded: 'You know, Snitches never prosper. You know, and only one made it. That was who was that Gunna? Gunna came back this, I'm strong, but you know, Jaw Morant made sure Jean-Marie wasn't going you know have a comeback…' Nick Young talked about D'Angelo Russell (Image via Getty Images) For context, in June of last year, the woman, who uses the nickname "Jaw Morant" on her X account, shared the chat exchange with D'Angelo Russell on Instagram. The NBA player was said to have sent her the first message a month before they officially began texting. She wrote in the post: "D'angelo Russell, you got some explaining to do… stop cheating on that yt woman with me.' by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 30 Of The Most Beautiful Women In History Undo Later, she posted screenshots of the text messages she claimed were from the Dallas Mavericks player on her X handle. They were full of intimate messages. He even reportedly sent her money to book a flight. However, the authenticity of these messages haven't been jugged as of yet. Also read: Zhuri James goes viral in Adidas as Bronny falls short in LA Lakers' game against Dallas Mavericks For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
