Kings Face Backlash Over Late-Game Tactics in Loss to Warriors

NBA investigating controversial foul that fueled speculation of intentional tanking

Apr. 8, 2026 at 10:07pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a basketball game, with sharp, overlapping shapes and planes representing the complex dynamics and competing interests at play in the Kings' late-game tactics.A cubist interpretation of the late-game drama between the Kings and Warriors, reflecting the strategic tensions and fractured perspectives surrounding the controversial foul.Today in Sacramento

The Sacramento Kings are facing scrutiny after intentionally fouling Warriors player Seth Curry in the final minutes of a close game, leading to accusations that the team was trying to lose in order to improve their draft position. The decision sparked outrage from players and observers, with Warriors star Draymond Green calling for the NBA to take action against teams engaging in such tactics.

Why it matters

The Kings' actions have raised questions about the integrity of the NBA and whether some teams are prioritizing draft position over actually trying to win games. This incident comes after the league fined other teams earlier in the season for similar conduct, indicating a growing concern over tanking behavior.

The details

With the Kings leading 101-100 late in the fourth quarter, coach Doug Christie made the controversial decision to intentionally foul Curry, a 90% free-throw shooter, despite him being well away from the basket. The Warriors went on to win 110-105, fueling speculation that the Kings were trying to lose the game. The NBA is now looking into the incident, with Green and others calling for the league to take stronger action against teams engaging in such tactics.

  • The incident occurred late in the fourth quarter of the Kings-Warriors game on April 8, 2026.
  • Earlier this season, the NBA fined the Utah Jazz $500,000 and the Indiana Pacers $100,000 for decisions to keep star players from playing in games.

The players

Doug Christie

Head coach of the Sacramento Kings.

Seth Curry

Guard for the Golden State Warriors, known for his high free-throw percentage.

Draymond Green

Star player for the Golden State Warriors who criticized the Kings' tactics.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“'I get fined when I do wrong,' Green said at the post-game press conference. '...we love taking money from players, keep fining the teams. I've seen two fines. And we all know everybody tanking.'”

— Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors player

“'Overt behavior like this that prioritizes draft position over winning undermines the foundation of NBA competition and we will respond accordingly to any further actions that compromise the integrity of our games,' said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver in a statement in February.”

— Adam Silver, NBA Commissioner

What’s next

The NBA is investigating the Kings' late-game tactics and is expected to determine if any disciplinary action will be taken against the team or coach Doug Christie.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing debate around tanking in the NBA and the league's efforts to maintain the integrity of the game. The Kings' actions have reignited calls for the NBA to take stronger measures against teams that appear to be prioritizing draft position over winning, underscoring the need for clear rules and enforcement to prevent such behavior.