Controversial block sparks outrage as Celtics edge Mavericks in Game 2 of NBA finals
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Fans were unhappy with the officiating during the Boston Celtics' 105-98 win over the Dallas Mavericks in Game 2 of the NBA Finals.
Celtics star Derrick White made a crucial but controversial defensive block late in the fourth quarter, significantly contributing to Boston's victory.
With the Celtics up by five and 50 seconds remaining, Mavericks player P.J. Washington received a pass from Kyrie Irving on a fast break and attempted a dunk. White blocked him at the rim. However, replays showed White made contact with Washington's hand, suggesting a foul should have been called.
The replay also indicated that Brown appeared to push Washington from behind. ESPN color commentator JJ Redick stated that White should have been called for a foul, and play-by-play broadcaster Mike Breen acknowledged after the game that the referees missed the foul.
‘There should’ve been a foul called on Jaylen Brown’ says Mike Breen on that Derrick White block on PJ Washington
Well there wasn’t and that no call sealed the game for the Celtics in a 105-98 victory over the Mavs
pic.twitter.com/6fol3la8wM— Justin DeSales (@JustinDeSales) June 10, 2024
The Celtics ultimately won by seven points, taking Game 2 for a 2-0 series lead. Furious fans quickly took to X (formerly Twitter) to complain about the non-call, with comments such as "Series rigged for Celtics double foul on White and Brown no call" and "These refs are terrible."
White finished the game with 18 points, five rebounds, and two assists. Jrue Holiday led the Celtics with 26 points and 11 rebounds, while Jayson Tatum struggled with his shooting, posting 18 points, 12 assists, and nine rebounds. The Celtics are now 6-0 on the road this postseason, have won eight consecutive games, and are two wins away from the NBA Finals title.