Full Breakdown
Timberwolves Coach Chris Finch Confronts Referee Tony Brothers in Game 3
5/10/2026, 4:08:04 AM
Confrontation Overview
With just over five minutes left in Game 3 of the Western Conference Semifinals, Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch called a timeout while the team trailed 102-100. Referee crew chief Tony Brothers delayed the stoppage, prompting Finch to repeat, “I want my three seconds back.” Brothers then approached the Timberwolves bench, exchanged words with Finch, and was briefly restrained by forward Naz Reid, guard Bones Hyland, and assistant Pablo Prigioni. Finch later said Brothers shouted when he asked where the inbound would be taken.
Series Context
The game was the third of a best-of-seven series tied 1-1. The night before, Lakers guard Austin Reaves called official John Goble disrespectful, underscoring heightened scrutiny of playoff officiating.
Timeline
- 5:12 left – Finch requests timeout; Brothers does not grant it immediately.
- 5:09 – Finch repeats “I want my three seconds back.”
- Moments later – Brothers walks toward the bench; Reid intervenes.
- Seconds after – Finch asks about inbound location; Brothers allegedly shouts.
- Final seconds – Hyland and Prigioni hold Brothers back.
Game Statistics
San Antonio defeated Minnesota 115-108, taking a 2-1 series lead. Victor Wembanyama posted 39 points, 15 rebounds, five blocks. Minnesota logged 15 offensive rebounds and 99 shot attempts (38 % shooting) versus San Antonio’s 85 attempts. Anthony Edwards contributed 32 points, 14 rebounds, six assists; Julius Randle and Jaden McDaniels combined for 8-of-34 shooting.
Official Statements
Finch described Brothers’ conduct as unprofessional and said the delayed timeout nearly caused a turnover. Edwards said the team still respects Brothers. Gobert said the incident reflected high emotions and high stakes typical of playoffs. Reaves criticized Goble’s behavior as disrespectful. Embiid suggested referees showed bias toward the Knicks, pointing to a free-throw disparity.
Criticism & Opposition
Reaves’ accusation and Finch’s public rebuke illustrate growing criticism of officiating consistency. The NBA has not issued an official comment on the Finch-Brothers exchange.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the exact timeout request time (5:12 vs. 5:09). No NBA statement confirms or disciplines either party, leaving the full details undocumented.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Pretty unprofessional, huh?” — Chris Finch, Timberwolves head coach
- “He lost it.” — Chris Finch, Timberwolves head coach
- “We wanna win. Finchy wanna win. Tony Brothers is Tony Brothers. We all love him.” — Anthony Edwards, Timberwolves guard
- “disrespectful” — Austin Reaves, Los Angeles Lakers guard
Implications & Next Steps
The incident adds pressure on Minnesota as the series shifts to Game 4 in San Antonio. The league may review the exchange for possible disciplinary action, and heightened scrutiny of officiating could shape future playoff interactions.
