In a historic and unprecedented move, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has imposed the highest fine in NBA history on a game official following a series of critical officiating errors during a high-stakes matchup between the Milwaukee Bucks and the Dallas Mavericks.
The referee, whose identity has not yet been officially confirmed by the league, is reportedly facing a $250,000 fine—a record-setting penalty—for what the NBA has described as “egregious mistakes that directly impacted the outcome of the game.”
According to the league’s internal review, several key calls in the closing minutes of the game—including a controversial offensive foul on Giannis Antetokounmpo and a missed goaltending violation against Luka Dončić—sparked widespread outrage among fans, analysts, and team officials.
In a rare statement, Commissioner Silver addressed the decision:
> “Accountability is essential to maintaining the integrity of the game. While we understand that mistakes happen, the errors made in this game were both avoidable and unacceptable, especially given the magnitude of the moment.”
The Bucks, who were vying for playoff seeding advantage, ultimately lost the game 112–110 after a series of disputed calls swung momentum late in the fourth quarter.
Both teams have refrained from official comment, though sources close to the Bucks organization describe the internal mood as “furious.” Mavericks coach Jason Kidd declined to address the officiating in his post-game comments, stating only, “We’ll take the win, but I understand why they’re upset.”
This fine marks a new chapter in the NBA’s ongoing efforts to enhance transparency and accountability in officiating—a topic that has remained a point of contention among players, coaches, and fans alike.
More updates to follow as this story develops.
