NBA Admits Key Mistake During Warriors-Grizzlies Play-In Game

In a highly anticipated Western Conference play-in game on April 15, 2025, the Golden State Warriors narrowly defeated the Memphis Grizzlies 121–116. The contest was marked by intense competition and crucial moments that would ultimately determine the playoff seeding. However, following the game’s conclusion, the NBA acknowledged several officiating errors that had significant implications on the outcome.

The Controversial Play: Curry’s Free Throws

With 7.3 seconds remaining and the Warriors leading by a single point, a pivotal play unfolded. Grizzlies guard Ja Morant reached in and knocked the ball away from Stephen Curry, causing it to go out of bounds. The NBA’s Last Two Minute Report later revealed that Curry had made last contact with the ball before it went out, meaning the Grizzlies should have retained possession. Instead, the officials awarded the ball to the Warriors, and Curry subsequently sank two free throws, extending the lead to three points.

The Missed Five-Second Violation

After a Grizzlies timeout, Memphis was called for a five-second violation during an inbound attempt, resulting in another set of free throws for Curry. The NBA’s report upheld this call, affirming that the Grizzlies had indeed failed to inbound the ball within the required time frame.

Uncalled Fouls and Violations

The report also identified two critical missed calls:

1. Draymond Green’s Non-Foul: With 1:29 left in the game, Green committed a foul on Memphis’ Scotty Pippen Jr. The NBA acknowledged that Green should have been assessed his sixth foul at that juncture, which would have disqualified him from the remainder of the game.
2. Zach Edey’s Offensive Goaltending: In a sequence with 1:27 remaining, Edey attempted a putback dunk that was ruled legal. However, the NBA’s report stated that Edey should have been called for offensive goaltending, which would have negated the basket and potentially altered the game’s momentum.

The Broader Impact

These officiating oversights have sparked discussions about the integrity of the game’s officiating and the potential consequences of such errors in high-stakes situations. While the Warriors secured the No. 7 playoff seed and are set to face the No. 2 Houston Rockets, the Grizzlies now face the winner of the Sacramento Kings vs. Dallas Mavericks matchup for a chance to advance.

The NBA’s acknowledgment of these officiating errors underscores the importance of accurate and consistent officiating, especially in critical moments that can influence playoff outcomes. As the Warriors prepare for their upcoming series against the Rockets, the Grizzlies will look to rebound and seize another opportunity to compete in the postseason.