Game 7 Justice

On Sunday, James Capers, Josh Tiven, and Sean Wright made a rare entry into the record books as they were appointed to referee the pivotal Game 7 of the NBA Finals. This matchup sees the Oklahoma City Thunder face off against the Indiana Pacers, marking a first for all three officials in their careers within such an intense finale.

Byron Spruell, the NBA’s head of league operations, previously stated, ‘Being selected to work the NBA Finals is the pinnacle of achievement for an official.’ This particular Game 7 elevates that honor even more.

Notably absent from this high-stakes officiating panel is Scott Foster, who has served as a referee in two previous Game 7s. If selected, he would have joined the elite ranks of referees officiating multiple finals game sevens. Instead, the current group includes veterans with varied experiences in the finals, with Capers having officiated his thirteenth finals game.

Foster has faced criticism on social media, but Indiana Pacers coach Rick Carlisle voiced his support, referring to Foster as ‘a great official’ and disputing the negativity surrounding his officiating.

In a press interaction, Thunder coach Mark Daigneault emphasized respect for the referees while acknowledging their role in the game outcome; he noted they could not control decision-making, which must focus internally on their gameplay.

This Game 7 promises to be an intense showcase as the teams fight for the championship.