The passage discusses a basketball game between the Phoenix Suns and the Sacramento Kings. In the game, Phoenix Suns forward Udoka Azubuike delivered an impressive performance, earning praise and excitement from Kevin Durant, who was seen leaping out of his seat and pumping his fist. However, Durant received a technical foul for walking on the court, a decision that was questioned by observers.
“I talked to the ref about it,” Durant said after the game. “I stepped on the court a little too far and I can’t do that. It’s disrespectful to the refs and the game. The rules that’s in place for the game, I can’t break them like that because I’m excited for my teammates regardless of what type of play it was.”
Despite the technical foul, Durant acknowledged the error and took responsibility, stating that he stepped on the court too far, which is against the rules and disrespectful to the referees and the game. He recognized that regardless of the excitement for his teammates, he cannot break the established rules.
“I didn’t know why he got the tech,” Azubuike said. “He was just happy it was a great play.”
Udoka Azubuike’s outstanding performance is highlighted in the passage. Azubuike, who had limited playing time in the season, contributed significantly with 11 points and 11 rebounds, making all five of his shots. His performance was crucial for the Suns, especially in the absence of starting center Jusuf Nurkic.
Suns coach Frank Vogel praised Azubuike, referring to him as an “ass-kicker.” Azubuike expressed his happiness about the opportunity to contribute to the team and play for his teammates.
The passage also mentions that Azubuike was surprised by Durant’s technical and didn’t understand why it was given, as Durant was simply expressing joy for a great play.
Despite Azubuike’s positive contribution, the Suns lost the game to the Kings with a score of 120-95. The team struggled, and guard Eric Gordon expressed frustration about his shot attempts.
The Suns are set to return to play against the Dallas Mavericks on Christmas Monday at home.
