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NBA fans criticize referee selections for 2026 Finals

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 2, 2026, 6:20 PM

Last updated Jun 2, 2026

NBA fans criticize referee selections for 2026 Finals

Summary

The NBA has appointed Scott Foster and Tony Brothers to officiate the 2026 Finals between the Spurs and Knicks, starting Wednesday in San Antonio. Concerns have emerged following a recent NBPA survey where players expressed dissatisfaction with Foster's Tier 2 ranking, calling for only Tier 1 officials for the Finals. Critics question the league's choices, citing long-standing reputations of both refs for controversial calls. Fans are voicing their displeasure online, anticipating significant drama in the upcoming games.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Game 1 of the Finals tips off Wednesday at 8:30 p.m. ET.
•Scott Foster is officiating his 19th Finals, while Tony Brothers is in his 15th.
•The NBPA survey indicated players prefer Tier 1 officials for the Finals.
•Fans are expressing frustration over the selection of Foster and Brothers online.

Latest Updates

6:20 PMYahoo Sports — Why NBA's choice of Scott Foster and Tony Brothers for Finals is already dividing fans

What they're saying

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NBA fans slam the league's choice of Scott Foster and Tony Brothers for the 2026 Finals after the NBPA player survey exposed major referee tier bias.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

New York Knicks San Antonio Spurs Oklahoma City Thunder NBA Basketball