With the Houston Rockets' backs against the wall in Game Three against the Golden State Warriors, James Harden did what superstars are expected to do: he demanded the ball, created separation, and drilled a game-winning shot with 2.7 seconds left. The ensuing Warriors' possession proved to be empty, with Draymond Green dribbling the ball off his foot, and the series (now 2-1 in favor of Golden State) suddenly became interesting. It was only the Warriors' 10th loss of the season.
Well, the NBA announced today the result likely should have been different, and Harden's game-winning shot should not have counted. There was a lot of contact between Harden and Andre Iguodala on the play, and the league says Harden pushed off and committed an offensive foul. Harden extended his right forearm into Iguodala's chest. In the heat of the moment, it was difficult to discern whether Iguodala, who flailed his arms, was embellishing, or if he had actually been pushed. Upon further review, it looks like a clear offensive foul.
Check out the play for yourself:
The NBA released a report Friday stating there were actually five missed calls in the final two minutes of the game, none more important than the contact on the game-winning step-back. Regardless, Houston got the W 97-96, and the series moves on. Game Four is Sunday at 3:30 p.m. EST in Houston.
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