Coco Gauff ex-coach Brad Gilbert has openly criticized referees officiating the NBA Finals, specifically taking issue with calls benefiting Oklahoma City Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Gilbert accused officials of rewarding what he called “blatant foul calls” during the intense Game 5 on June 16, 2025, held at the Paycom Center. His frustration highlights ongoing debates about foul drawing and refereeing standards in high-stakes basketball games.

In the clash between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Indiana Pacers, Gilgeous-Alexander helped secure a 120-109 victory for his team but attracted scrutiny for repeatedly drawing fouls. Gilbert, better known as a former tennis athlete and coach, expressed sharp disappointment on social media over what he saw as referees falling for “foul hunters” who exaggerated contact to gain advantages.

Gilbert Voices His Displeasure About NBA Officials’ Handling of Foul Plays

Brad Gilbert used his X platform to condemn the referees’ decisions, describing the game as difficult to watch due to the leniency shown toward players like Gilgeous-Alexander. He wrote explicitly about the behavior of certain players, accusing them of

“blatantly jumping into guys’ armbars and flopping”

and claimed such acts should never be rewarded, regardless of the situation.

“I’m absolutely shocked the way Refs are falling for the foul hunters blatantly jumping into guys armbars and flopping rewards, it’s not or ever should be rewarded, I know I’m getting old but extremely difficult to watch unless you are his home team.”

Gilbert’s remarks reflect a growing frustration among fans and analysts who believe that excessive fouling and flopping compromise the flow and fairness of the game. His earlier criticism after Game 4 suggested mounting disappointment as he anticipated more questionable calls in subsequent matches.

Reflecting on Past Challenges: Gilbert’s Own Olympic Regret and Career Insights

In a separate conversation with Tennis Channel, Brad Gilbert shared an important episode from his athletic career that contrasts with his current commentary role. He recalled a pivotal mistake during the 1988 Seoul Olympics, where he prematurely assumed victory against Tim Mayotte after Mayotte defeated Stefan Edberg. This moment haunted Gilbert as a missed chance for an Olympic gold medal.

“My draw was Tim Mayotte, and I was set to play him. Mayotte had just beaten Edberg, and for some reason—coming off a long injury—I didn’t really give myself a chance. I got ahead of myself. I literally thought, ‘I’ve got this gold,’ and I made the fatal mistake of cashing the check before it was in my hand.” he said (21:40).

Gilbert admitted his performance in that semifinal was below his best, losing in straight sets. He contrasted that loss with a later victory over Mayotte, which only added to his regret.

“I went out and played a woeful match against my teammate Tim Mayotte. I lost. All the matches then were best of five, and I lost 6-4, 6-4, 6-4. The courts were lightning-fast. I would have lost to Edberg in that bronze medal playoff. But the sad thing was, like three weeks later at Båstad, I thumped Mayotte in maybe the round of 16.”

Gilbert’s reflections reveal a somber perspective shaped by personal setbacks, underscoring the fine margins that define success in competitive sports.

Significance of Gilbert’s Comments on NBA Officiating and Sportsmanship

Brad Gilbert’s outspoken criticism of NBA referees during the Finals adds to ongoing discussions about the integrity of officiating and how rules are applied in pressure-packed environments. His concerns about “foul hunters” and flopping raise questions about how such tactics impact the viewer experience and fairness on the court.

As an experienced athlete and coach who understands the importance of sportsmanship and fair play, Gilbert’s perspective carries weight in both tennis and basketball circles. The NBA may face increased pressure to address these contentious calls to maintain credibility and satisfy fans across competing teams.

Looking ahead, how referees adapt to these challenges and whether stricter enforcement or rule changes emerge will be closely watched, especially as playoff intensity continues to rise.