During the Western Conference Finals, ESPN’s NBA analyst Doris Burke stirred some controversy by referring to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as a “free throw merchant” in the Game 1 matchup between the Timberwolves and the Thunder.
This comment didn’t sit well with everyone, and Burke faced some backlash. However, in a podcast from ESPN PR, NBA commentators clarified that her remark was rooted in a bigger narrative surrounding Gilgeous-Alexander.
Burke noted, “In Minnesota, one of the main storylines was a bit frustrating regarding how many free throws Shai took. NBA Twitter often latches onto players with these labels like ‘free throw merchants.’ It reminded me somewhat of Dwyane Wade during the 2006 Finals against Dallas.”
“We discussed the ‘Free Throw Merchant’ storyline because 19,000 fans were chanting it in Minnesota. If we can’t catch it at home, you might wonder what’s being said,” she explained.
She seemed to wear the audience’s reaction like a badge of honor, acknowledging that multiple fanbases could be frustrated with her commentary. “Oklahoma City fans were definitely among them. Typically, when several fanbases are upset with me, I feel like I’m doing something right. Boston fans often think I’m against them too. But I really like SGA,” she added.
The Pacers’ head coach commended Burke for her contributions to ESPN broadcasts as Game 1 of the NBA Finals approached.
“She has transformed the game in so many ways. I really want to support that,” he shared with reporters before Burke returned to her final coverage on TV.
It remains uncertain if she’ll be back alongside play-by-play announcer Mike Breen, as reports suggest Burke’s position on the top broadcasting team isn’t guaranteed.
