Memphis Grizzlies power forward Jaren Jackson Jr. was given a technical foul for flopping during Saturday night's game against the Los Angeles Lakers.
It happened with 18.2 seconds remaining in the third quarter as the Lakers held a 101-97 lead. As Lakers power forward Jarred Vanderbilt was dribbling into the corner to shoot a wide-open three-pointer, LeBron James and Jackson were jockeying for position just outside the key. As James used his elbow lightly against Jackson, Jackson threw himself down on the ground towards Vanderbilt as if he had been pushed from behind by James. The flop was so obvious that television broadcasters burst into laughter as they watched the replay.
Lakers head coach JJ Redick used one of his coach's challenges, and after review, the officials justifiably T'd up Jackson for flopping. Austin Reaves made the technical free throw to give the Lakers a 102-99 lead.
NBA rules that made flopping a technical foul have only been in place since the 2023-24 season. In the past, many NBA players flopped to draw fouls on their opponents. Fortunately, this rule has put a stop to that practice as it was being abused.
Jackson finished with 24 points, but it wasn't enough as the Lakers beat the Grizzlies 134-127.
Moonlighting as a blogger to pursue my interest and enjoyment of sports. Former high school and Division I athlete (now a "retired" family man) that loves watching and discussing all sports. Follow me on Twitter (@HoldoutSports) and like Holdout Sports on Facebook.
