The Warriors began their season on a high note, mirroring their strong preseason performance with a solid win over the Portland Trail Blazers. While the team’s offense looked sharp and cohesive, one incident caused a bit of unease among fans.
True to his intense reputation, Draymond Green received his first technical foul of the new season in the opening game. Thankfully, head coach Steve Kerr stepped in before things could escalate, determined to avoid a repeat of last year’s challenges.
The incident unfolded during the second quarter when Green was called for a foul while scrambling for a loose ball against Deni Avdija.
Unhappy with the decision, Green voiced his frustration, and although the officials initially let it slide, he continued to make his feelings known even as the other team lined up for free throws. Eventually, his persistent complaints led to a technical foul.
Kerr’s reaction
Recognizing the need to defuse the situation, Kerr quickly called a timeout after Green‘s heated exchange, preventing him from further confrontation with the referees.
This quick intervention ensured that Green did not pick up a second technical, which would have meant an early exit from the game.
Kerr‘s timely action kept Green on the court and allowed the Warriors to stay focused, starting their season with a win and avoiding unnecessary drama on opening night.
“I mean, you’ve been watching us for a long time,” Kerr said after the game.
“So, Draymond‘s gonna get plenty of technicals. As long he doesn’t get the second one, we’re fine.
“You can’t have it all. You can’t ask Draymond to play with this amazing passion and energy and effort and tell him ‘No. No. You have to tone down the emotion.’ It’s all part of the package. There’s gonna be a lot of technicals, we just can’t let him get two.”