Why Did NBA Referees Miss The Call on Jalen Brunson in Knicks-Pistons Game? Match Official Explains

The Game 3 of the first-round series between the New York Knicks and the Detroit Pistons was no less than a roller coaster. Both teams bested physically against each other, with the score coming down to 116-113 in the final five seconds of the game.

The Knicks somehow escaped the game with a narrow 118-116 score-line, clinching a 2-1 lead in the series. However, ESPN's Chris Herring reports how the Knicks' late lead might have been because of Jalen Brunson catching the ball near midcourt up three.

The Pistons fans, the team, coach JB Bickerstaff, and even former NBA player Jalen Rose who was sitting courtside were baffled with no-call on Jalen Brunson. It seemed like Brunson caught the ball in the frontcourt only for his momentum to carry him to the backcourt, where he was then fouled during the remaining 3.5 seconds. Here is how NBA referee Zach Zarba explained the situation, providing some further clarity on the controversial call.

Why Was There No Call For Jalen Brunson in Knicks vs. Pistons Game 3?

To provide further clarity to this situation, match official Zach Zarba cited Rule 4, Section 6G of the NBA rulebook in the postgame report. As per the report, Brunson did not fully establish his position in the frontcourt when he caught the ball, despite contentions raised by fans and Pistons coach JB Bickerstaff.

“Brunson and the trajectory of the pass were headed toward the backcourt. Brunson's momentum was taking him there when he touches the ball. That's why that play is legal,” said Zarba.

Furthermore, Brunson also intentionally missed a free throw up two points with 0.5 seconds remaining since the Pistons did not have any timeouts remaining. Nevertheless, the clock ran out before anybody could grab the rebound.

Once again, the officials reviewed the situation and gave the Pistons an inbound pass, which was now not appreciated by the Knicks fans despite the Pistons not scoring. Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau said, “It doesn't seem right to me. That should never happen, ever, in a playoff game.”

The Knicks overcame Detroit's home court advantage to clinch a victory after losing Game 2. Further, they have the perfect opportunity to seize control of the series on Sunday's Game 4 and progress to the next round.