The Phoenix Suns are heading into the All-Star Weekend on a low note after getting manhandled by the Oklahoma City Thunder, who played without MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Their return isn’t ideal either, as they could possibly lose Dillon Brooks for one game.
Brooks did his best to help his team overcome the defending champions, even pleading with the referees at one point. However, the officials saw things differently and assessed him a technical foul — his 16th of the season.
If it is not overturned, Brooks will be suspended for one game.
The technical was assessed midway through the second quarter when the Suns were trailing 55–37. In addition to the suspension, he will also receive a $5,000 fine.
In the end, Brooks’ aggressiveness amounted to nothing, as the Suns were listless throughout the game before settling for a 136–109 defeat. Brooks finished with a team-high 23 points.
The Thunder were led by Jalen Williams, who was playing in just his second game after dealing with a wrist injury that had kept him out since January 17. He finished with a game-high 28 points and received strong support from five bench players who scored in double figures.
The Suns played without their scoring guards Devin Booker and Jalen Green who were both out for injury management.
Dillon Brooks on the technical foul call
Brooks has had three technical fouls overturned this season. He is not convinced that this latest one warrants a technical.
“All I said was, ‘You’re giving out fouls, you’re giving out fouls, and you’re giving out fouls,’” Brooks said after the game.
“If that deserves a T, there should be way more people in there who have 10 or 12 Ts.”
The Canadian forward suggested that his technical fouls are results of his reputation. It is not yet known whether the Suns will appeal this one.
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