The longstanding tension between Chris Paul and NBA referee Scott Foster came to the forefront once again, reaching a sensational climax as Foster ejected Paul during a game at Footprint Center on Wednesday.
The dispute began when Paul was called for a foul against Kevin Durant late in the second quarter. Subsequently, Paul received a technical foul and engaged in a heated exchange with Foster, expressing his dissatisfaction with the officiating.
The verbal altercation escalated, leading to Paul referring to Foster with strong language, resulting in his swift ejection from the game, which Golden State ultimately lost 123-115. After the game, Paul provided insights into the longstanding animosity between him and Foster.
“It’s personal,” Paul stated.
“We had a situation some years ago, and it’s personal. The league knows, everybody knows. There’s been a meeting and all that. It’s just a situation with my son.
“I’m OK with a ref talking, saying whatever. Just don’t use a tech to get your point across. I’ve got to do a better job making sure I stay on the floor for my teammates. That’s that.”
Foster, on the other hand, contends that he made the correct decision in ejecting the now-Warriors veteran. When questioned about the initial discussion that led to the conflict, Foster responded, “The foul called against him at 23.5.”