In a closely contested battle against the reigning champion Denver Nuggets, the Golden State Warriors found themselves on the wrong end of a crucial non-goaltending call that left Stephen Curry and head coach Steve Kerr rightfully frustrated. The referees failed to acknowledge Aaron Gordon’s blatant goaltending violation, costing the Warriors two crucial points in a three-point loss.

The immediate reaction from Curry and Kerr reflected their disappointment, especially considering that a successful layup during that possession could have tied the game and prevented the Nuggets from capitalizing in transition, resulting in a painful four-point swing.

Despite their frustration, Kerr, recognizing the challenges referees face in making real-time decisions, gave them the benefit of the doubt. In his postgame presser, he commented, “The non-goaltend call, it hurts. But I’m used to it. Honestly, it’s a difficult call to make, it happens, bang bang. It seems like, last year four or five of those [non-calls happened to us]. It’s gonna happen this year too. So it’s part of it. Plenty of calls both ways. That’s the way it goes.”

While it’s disheartening to see such blatant calls go unnoticed, Kerr understands that it’s an inevitable aspect of the game. Expressing their frustration won’t change the outcome, but holding officials accountable may contribute to a reduction in such mistakes.

Looking ahead, the Warriors, led by Stephen Curry, must shift their focus to their upcoming game against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Saturday, aiming to avenge their earlier season defeat.