Tempers flared as Jusuf Nurkić and Draymond Green renewed their on-court rivalry during the Phoenix Suns vs. Golden State Warriors game. Following three consecutive possessions where Nurkić and Green were entangled, the Phoenix Suns center conveyed to his Warriors counterpart: “Get outta here.”
“Get outta here.”
– Nurkic to Draymond.
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) February 11, 2024
The two players had a previous controversial altercation in December, resulting in Draymond Green’s ejection and subsequent suspension. The recent matchup saw the resumption of their intense battle within the first six minutes.
Fans support Draymond Green over Jusuf Nurkić in Golden State Warrior’s narrow win over Phoenix Suns
The first altercation occurred as Green, now playing center for the Warriors, held down Nurkic during a post-up attempt. Despite the foul being called, Green took a swipe at Nurkic, sparking tensions. The second encounter happened when Nurkic was called for an offensive foul on Green, with the Warriors’ leader staring down his opponent.
Draymond Green vs. Jusuf Nurkic round 2 🍿pic.twitter.com/oclJvftpPF
— Action Network (@ActionNetworkHQ) February 11, 2024
The fans at Chase Center passionately supported Draymond Green in these exchanges, although there were concerns about potential technical fouls or ejections due to their history. The game, with Golden State leading 59-58 at halftime, remained tense, and fans hoped for a peaceful second half.
Draymond Green technical foul pic.twitter.com/K6SzOzVfpC
— Oh no he didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) February 11, 2024
Post the recent game, Nurkic took to social media to address Green’s play as he criticized his antics. He stated “It’s sad. He didn’t learn anything. Just a matter of time. He’s going to hit somebody else again. Take back everything I said. He don’t deserve a chance.”
"It's sad. He didn't learn anything. Just a matter of time. He's going to hit somebody else again. Take back everything I said. He don't deserve a chance."
Jusuf Nurkic on Draymond Green, who got suspended after hitting him in face Dec. 12.
"Antics. Try to hit people." #Suns pic.twitter.com/fEF2hLJuyS
— Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) February 11, 2024
Fans are divided over the rivalry between Draymond Green and Jusuf Nurkić. Fans took to social media to express their opinions. Some fans were in support of Green as they believed Nurkic did the same things and yet was being hypocritical. Others were however critical of Green’s aggressive play.
Draymond literally did nothing Nurkic didn’t do first 🤣🤣 He’s just soft and mad he got outplayed
— japta (@DubsBetterrrr) February 11, 2024
get him out the league already man
— 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐲 𝐅𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐤𝐥𝐢𝐧 𝐓𝐨𝐩 𝟓 (@3KTroy) February 11, 2024
Jusuf Nurkić, in the December game post-game interview, expressed concerns about Draymond Green, suggesting he “needs help” during their previous altercation. He said “What’s going on with him, I don’t know. Personally, I feel like that brother needs help. I’m glad he didn’t try to choke me.”
Jusuf Nurkic on the Draymond Green Flagrant 2: “What’s going on with him, I don’t know. Personally, I feel like that brother needs help. I’m glad he didn’t try to choke me.” pic.twitter.com/NIVmKSEjmF
— PHNX Suns (@PHNX_Suns) December 13, 2023
Golden State Warriors beat Phoenix Suns 113-112 in a very close encounter with Stephen Curry leading the charge for the Warriors. Green had a great overall game in both the offense and defense, while Nurkic struggled a bit in his 26 minutes on the court.
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