
Indiana Pacers coach Rick Carlisle spoke out in defense of referee Scott Foster ahead of Game 5 of the NBA Finals. Foster has faced heavy criticism online following his officiating in Game 4, which Oklahoma City won 111-104 to even the series.
Carlisle called Foster “a great official” with whom he has known for 30 years. “He’s done a great job in these playoffs,” Carlisle said. “The ridiculous scrutiny that’s being thrown out there is terrible and unfair and unjust and stupid.”
The Pacers coach declined further comment on the officiating debate but made it clear he stood by Foster. “I’m not getting into it. I’ve said what I’m going to say,” Carlisle told reporters.
Game 4 saw Oklahoma City’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander score 15 of his 35 points in the final five minutes, helping the Thunder overcome a 10-point second-half deficit. The Pacers were outscored 31-17 in the fourth quarter despite leading most of the game.
Carlisle also addressed other topics, including the team’s momentum and injuries. When asked about the concept of momentum in a playoff series, he said, “I think there is momentum,” but noted it can fade between games due to breaks in the schedule. He pointed out that the Pacers played well for three quarters in Game 4 before struggling in the final period.
On the injury front, Carlisle confirmed Jarace Walker is unlikely to return for the Finals due to a lower-body injury, though he is walking without crutches now.
Pascal Siakam’s reduced involvement in the fourth quarter also came under scrutiny. Carlisle acknowledged, “If we’re not playing through him, he needs to touch the ball more.” He highlighted rebounding and foul trouble as key factors that slowed Indiana down late in the game.
Carlisle praised Siakam’s versatility and leadership, noting the forward’s journey from the G-League to becoming a core part of the Pacers. “He’s been a major part of the growth of our team and our young guys over the last two years,” Carlisle said.
The series now shifts back to Oklahoma City for Game 5 on Monday. Historically, the winner of a tied NBA Finals Game 5 goes on to claim the championship about 73% of the time.