Houston Rockets coach Ime Udoka enjoys walking around cities during his team's playoff schedule. Speaking with reporters, he noted the contrast between online hostility and the warm reception from fans encountered in person. Tensions have risen in the playoffs, particularly after an incident involving Rockets guard Amen Thompson and Warriors forward Jimmy Butler. While some question Thompson's play as dirty, his teammate Dillon Brooks defended him, suggesting the focus should be on the Warriors. Udoka expects an intense playoff atmosphere, acknowledging the bias among fans, while praising Thompson's performance regardless of the incident.
Honestly, wherever you go, you might have some hostility online and all this. But in person, nobody says anything. You're not as brave in person.
No, I think the dirty player is Draymond (Green), giving him a little push as regular basketball players do... Amen's not a dirty player.
I think that's what you get as an opponent, obviously in the playoffs, regardless... Unfortunate what happened... wasn't intentional or anything.
Thompson had 11 points and three assists in the Warriors' 109-94 win that leveled the series at one win apiece.
Collection
[
|
...
]