OKC Thunder Coach Addresses Controversial Foul Decision vs Nuggets
Oklahoma City Thunder coach Mark Daigneault discussed the controversial decision to foul while up by three points against the Denver Nuggets in Game 1 of the Western Conference Semifinals.
The Thunder appeared to be in control with a three-point lead in the final moments, but the decision to foul with too much time remaining ultimately backfired. This misstep allowed Aaron Gordon to hit a game-winning shot, costing OKC the victory.
Despite the backlash, Daigneault defended his decision after the game. “I thought we executed the fouls well; it just didn’t go our way tonight, but it has worked out for us in the past,” Daigneault explained. “I don’t think that’s the reason we lost.”
Mark Daigneault:
"I thought we executed the fouls pretty well, it didn't go our way tonight, but it's worked out well for us in the past. I didn't think that's why we lost the game" pic.twitter.com/DfuJ7gbUJ5
— Oh No He Didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) May 6, 2025
He also admitted that the team may have initiated the foul a bit early, but he took full responsibility for the choice.
Mark Daigneault “the foul on 3, that’s on me” mentioned it isn’t on the players they’re executing what he is telling them to do. Added he might’ve gone to foul up 3 a bit too early.
— Rylan Stiles (@Rylan_Stiles) May 6, 2025
While the foul was a costly mistake for the Thunder, it turned into a lucky break for the Nuggets. Just like in their Game 4 win over the LA Clippers, the Nuggets thrived in the final seconds. Denver, one of the league’s most clutch teams, showed their composure once again in the postseason.
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