In the world of NBA basketball, the New York Knicks are feeling the heat after a tough 111-100 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder. The spotlight is now on Knicks head coach Mike Brown, who had some interesting comments about the Thunder's knack for drawing fouls, particularly through their All-Star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Gilgeous-Alexander was a force to be reckoned with, sinking 13 of his 16 free-throw attempts and finishing with 30 points.
ESPN's Stephen A. Smith didn't hold back on "First Take," suggesting that instead of critiquing the Thunder, Brown might want to take a page from their playbook.
"Don’t hate, emulate," Smith advised. With the Thunder reigning as NBA champions, they're clearly doing something right.
The Knicks, meanwhile, have struggled against top-tier teams, posting a 4-7 record against opponents above .500 since the All-Star break. As Smith pointed out, that's not going to cut it come playoff time.
Currently sitting at 48-27, the Knicks hold a slim 1.5-game lead over the Cleveland Cavaliers for third place in the Eastern Conference. But with the playoffs looming, every game counts.
Brown, reflecting on the game, acknowledged the Thunder's savvy play. After losing guard Miles McBride to an injury during the game, Brown noted the Thunder's skill in drawing fouls, particularly through their star player, SGA.
Stephen A. Smith on Mike Brown complaining about the officiating during the OKC game:
— NBA Courtside (@NBA__Courtside) March 30, 2026
“I’m saying, listen, you look at the Oklahoma City Thunder rather than complain about them. Don’t hate, emulate. The fact is they’re the reigning defending NBA champions. They’re clearly doing… pic.twitter.com/GlWRMKQeKA
"Their gamesmanship is off the charts," Brown admitted. The Thunder excelled at the line, making 31 of 38 free-throw attempts, while the Knicks managed just 13 of 17.
The Knicks have some soul-searching to do as they prepare for the postseason, needing to find ways to elevate their game against the league's best.