The Golden State Warriors found themselves fighting an uphill battle against the Phoenix Suns on Wednesday (Nov. 22.).
Referee Scott Foster ejected Chris Paul late in the second quarter, giving the veteran guard two technical fouls in quick succession. Steve Kerr received a technical for his protest following Paul’s ejection.
During his postgame press conference, Kerr discussed Foster’s decision to eject Paul. Kerr shared that he thought Paul deserved his first technical foul but did not deserve to be ejected from the game. Golden State was already playing short-handed as a result of Draymond Green‘s absence due to a league-issued suspension for putting Rudy Gobert in a headlock.
“I think Scott felt like Chris didn’t stop; he kept going,” Kerr said. “That’s why he gave him the second one. I didn’t think Chris deserved to be ejected. The first tech? Absolutely. The second one was unnecessary. Everybody gets frustrated out there, but that’s up to the official.”
Paul and Foster have a long history. During his own postgame press conference, the veteran guard revealed the NBA is aware of the issues between the two parties, and meetings have been held.
"I didn't think Chris deserved to be ejected."
Steve Kerr gives his thoughts on the CP3-Scott Foster exchange pic.twitter.com/8JgAy8CLr7
— Warriors on NBCS (@NBCSWarriors) November 23, 2023
However, Paul’s ejection will likely warrant a review from the league office, which could decide to punish the veteran guard further if they deem he crossed a line. For now, Paul will focus on being ready for Golden State’s next game and helping them bounce back from the team’s latest loss.
