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[Saba Sports News] Draymond Green is edging closer to an automatic suspension in the NBA playoffs, and the Golden State Warriors veteran believes race plays a significant role in how he’s being treated.
Green picked up his fifth technical foul of the postseason during the first half of Game 2 in the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
The infraction came after Timberwolves forward Naz Reid fouled Green while going for a steal, prompting Green to retaliate by swatting Reid in the head — an action that led to the technical. NBA rules mandate a one-game suspension once a player reaches seven technical fouls in the playoffs. Green is also two flagrant foul points away from another suspension trigger.
After the Warriors’ 117-93 loss, Green voiced his frustration in a fiery postgame statement, claiming he’s tired of being painted in a negative light because of his race.
“I’m not an angry Black man. I’m a very successful, educated Black man with a great family, and I’m great at basketball. I’m great at what I do,” Green said. “The agenda to keep making me look like an angry Black man is crazy. I’m sick of it. It’s ridiculous.”
Critics were quick to point out that most NBA players are Black, yet Green is among a very small group consistently criticized for their behavior on the court.
Many attributed his reputation more to his long history of on-court outbursts and controversial plays rather than racial bias. Following his comments, social media resurfaced several past incidents involving Green to highlight his emotional play style.
Even Warriors head coach Steve Kerr acknowledged that Green needs to keep his emotions in check, saying, “He’s going to have to be careful. He’s going to have to stay composed, and I’m confident he will because he knows the circumstances.”
As the series shifts to Game 3 tied 1-1, Green will have to walk a fine line — keeping his competitive edge while avoiding the suspension that looms just two technicals away.