The NBA has confirmed that Denver Nuggets player Christian Braun did not signal for a timeout during the final moments of their 119-115 victory over the Golden State Warriors. The league’s Last Two Minute Report clarified that the officiating crew was correct in their decision, concluding that Braun “never fully or clearly signals for a timeout,” meaning that no timeout was recognized.
The situation arose with just 1.9 seconds left on the clock when Braun, after recovering a loose ball on the floor, appeared to motion for a timeout. Golden State’s coach Steve Kerr was incensed by the officials’ decision, believing that if Braun had been assessed a technical foul for the timeout, it would have given the Warriors a pivotal free throw and subsequent possession.
However, Braun later stated that he was aware the Nuggets had no timeouts left, affirming he did not call for one despite the perception that he did. He acknowledged, “It might’ve looked like it, maybe. I was fumbling the ball on the ground a little bit. My hands moved but the refs didn’t call it.”
Kerr remained adamant about the incident, stating, “Braun called a timeout. He dove on the floor, he rolled over. Everybody saw it except for the three guys we hire to do the games, and that makes me angry.” The Warriors are now facing a challenging streak, having lost their fifth consecutive game after giving up a six-point lead in the final minutes.
This incident underscores the high stakes and emotional turbulence inherent in NBA games, where a single call can significantly alter the outcome. It also highlights the importance of clear communication and situational awareness—a lesson for players as much as for officials.
As the season progresses, both teams will likely look to learn from these close encounters. For the Nuggets, this win could serve as a morale booster, proving their resilience by finishing strong despite initial setbacks, while the Warriors will need to regroup and find ways to hold onto leads as they aim to break their losing streak.