The NBA released a controversial Luka Doncic statement after Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Dallas Mavericks Game 4
The Minnesota Timberwolves defeated the Dallas Mavericks in Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals, avoiding the sweep to force a Game 5. This was another close game between the two Western Conference finalists, but Minnesota was finally able to execute down the stretch to secure their first win of the series.
There was a very controversial play in the final minute of this game when Mavericks star Luka Doncic was fouled while shooting and making a three with 13 seconds remaining. Many felt Doncic was fouled before his upward shooting motion, while others felt he was not fouled at all.
LUKA NO WAY?!? 🔥🔥🔥
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) May 29, 2024
The basket made it a one possession game, and while Doncic missed the free throw, he had an opportunity to make it a two-point game at the line. Needless to say, this was a huge play at a critical moment in the game.
Having now released their Last Two Minute Report for Game 4, the NBA made a very controversial announcement on this Doncic three, saying it should not have counted:
“Edwards (MIN) fouls Doncic (DAL) before he has gathered the ball, extending his hand across Doncic’s arm as he attempts to gather,” the NBA wrote. “Since MIN is in the penalty, the basket should have been wiped and Doncic should have taken two free throws.”
The correct ruling would have sent Doncic to the line for two free throws, as opposed to awarding him a three-point basket and one free throw. This was a huge blown call at the time, but ended up being inconsequential with Minnesota winning the game.
