When Game 6 of the 2002 Western Conference Finals tipped off, the Sacramento Kings were one win away from knocking the Los Angeles Lakers out of the playoffs for the first time in years.
The Kings weren’t the underdogs — they had the NBA’s best regular-season record and home court advantage — but they certainly didn’t have the mass international appeal of the Lakers. When the fourth quarter rolled around, Sacramento was charged with a slew of mysterious foul calls, helping Los Angeles come from behind and win the game. The lopsided calls in the fourth quarter and LA’s subsequent victory in Game 7 gave many NBA fans a suspicious feeling about the officiating in Game 6.
I watched that game and couldn't believe the blatant fake penalties and fouls. The referees were dirty and threw the game to the Lakers because the NBA wanted a marquis name in the finals.
It was clear the refs threw that game. I don't watch NBA anymore. Fugg 'em.
