<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">GREENBURGH, N.Y., April 2 ? Two days after Knicks Coach Isiah Thomas criticized N.B.A. referees for their treatment of guard Stephon Marbury, he stood by his comments, even building on his case for why he believes Marbury should be sent to the foul line more often. Thomas first spoke out on Marbury?s behalf after the Knicks lost to the Hornets on Saturday, a game that further dented the team?s dim playoff hopes. He said Marbury did not carry the same clout with referees as other N.B.A. stars. ?When something?s not right, I kind of call it like I see it,? Thomas said at practice Monday. ?With Marbury and the way he?s been driving to the basket and goes to the basket ? again ? I hope that changes for him.? Marbury ranks 38th in the league in free-throw attempts, at 5.2 a game. Dwyane Wade of Miami is first, at 11 a game. Mike Bibby, a point guard who drives to the basket like Marbury, is 51st, with 4.6 a game. As a team, the Knicks go to the line more than most. They are one of only six teams averaging at least 29 free-throw attempts a game. Thomas said Marbury unfairly pays a price for strength and balance. ?Just because you are strong and can take the hit does not necessarily mean that you should get the hit,? Thomas said. He added that Marbury did not take the dives that some players do to draw the attention of the referees. ?You shouldn?t have to fall and fake and do all that other stuff,? Thomas said. ?As a player, I do believe he?s changed, and I do believe as a person he?s changed. I think he?s grown and matured a lot and there needs to be some type of acceptance and tolerance for his growth. Whatever he was two or three years ago, as a player and person, is not what he is today, and that needs to be acknowledged.? Asked about the possibility that his comments about officiating would draw a fine from the league, Thomas said, ?Whatever happens, I take my medicine.?</div> http://www.nytimes.com/2007/04/03/sports/b...r=1&oref=slogin
This is coming from Isiah Thomas: One of the Dirtiest ex basketball players to play the game? “Just because you are strong and can take the hit does not necessarily mean that you should get the hit.” True statement though.
Yea, its similar to Shaq and Yao's situation, where they get hit but because have the strength to muscle through they don't get the call.
I only saw the replay once, but it looked like Marbury was fouled on the three at the end of last night's loss to the 76ers.
