Suns' Dillon Brooks Blasts Refs After 16th Technical Foul

Brooks' outburst comes at a critical time before the All-Star break, risking suspension and impacting Phoenix's playoff push.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Suns forward Dillon Brooks confronted officials after receiving his 16th technical foul, accusing them of inconsistent and biased calls. Brooks believes referees single him out more than other players, and his latest technical came after an official accused him of "playing the victim." The timing of the foul is problematic, as further technical fouls could lead to suspensions that would sideline a key player during Phoenix's playoff push.

Why it matters

Brooks' aggressive style has been crucial for the Suns, but his repeated technical fouls risk disrupting team chemistry and availability at critical moments. Striking a balance between preserving intensity and avoiding disciplinary actions could be vital for the remainder of the season as Phoenix aims to maintain momentum in the tight playoff race.

The details

In a rare display of visible anger, Dillon Brooks confronted the officials following his 16th technical foul during a recent game in Phoenix. Brooks believes referees single him out more frequently than other players on the court, and he accused official Jason Williams of accusing him of "playing the victim" too much, leading to the latest technical foul.

  • Brooks received his 16th technical foul just before the NBA's All-Star break.
  • According to league policy, further technical fouls at 18, 20, 22, and so on, automatically trigger one-game suspensions.

The players

Dillon Brooks

A forward for the Phoenix Suns who is known for his aggressive style of play but has accumulated a league-high 16 technical fouls this season.

Jason Williams

An NBA official who accused Brooks of "playing the victim" too much, leading to Brooks' latest technical foul.

Devin Booker

A star player for the Phoenix Suns who is expected to return to full health after the All-Star break.

Jalen Green

A key player for the Phoenix Suns who is also expected to return to full health after the All-Star break.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“If you're going to be consistently bad, then be consistently bad throughout the whole game. Don't try to fix it during the game. Don't be trying to do any of that or try to even out foul calls or whatever the case might be. If you're going to be bad, be bad the whole game.”

— Dillon Brooks, Suns Forward (theconwaybulletin.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.