GG Jackson Criticizes Refs, Says Kevin Durant Gets Favorable Calls

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Memphis Grizzlies forward GG Jackson II voiced his frustration with officiating following his team’s 119-109 loss to the Houston Rockets on Friday night, claiming veteran players like Rockets star Kevin Durant receive preferential treatment from referees. The loss marked the Grizzlies’ fifth consecutive defeat and Jackson’s comments reflect a growing sense of unease within the team regarding officiating consistency.

“I’m trying to attack the basket and play physical, like I usually do, but I’m not getting any calls,” Jackson said after the game. “KD can do step-backs and step-backs and just jump up and down, and your hand is right there. On the replay, you clearly see nobody touched him.” Durant, in his 19th NBA season, drew seven fouls and led the Rockets with 25 points, adding 10 assists and six rebounds. The Rockets as a team were awarded 26 free throw attempts compared to just 18 for Memphis.

Jackson’s criticism wasn’t solely about the number of fouls called, but the perceived ease with which Durant draws them. He implied that the league’s established stars benefit from a reputation that influences officials’ decisions. “It’s unbelievable how the refs can suck up to somebody,” Jackson stated. “He’s the GOAT, so I respect that, but as far as us other guys, we bust our tails like he does.”

The Grizzlies’ struggles extend beyond officiating concerns. They’ve lost 13 of their last 14 games, and are navigating a late-season stretch with several key players sidelined due to injury. Jackson, a third-year player out of South Carolina, has seen increased playing time in the absence of those starters.

This isn’t the first time this season the Grizzlies have publicly questioned officiating. On March 10th, Memphis lost a close contest to the Philadelphia 76ers, a game marred by a significant free throw disparity – 46 attempts for the Sixers, and only 21 for the Grizzlies. Then-Grizzlies coach Tuomas Iisalo lamented the team’s inability to draw fouls, stating, “Our hands were going straight up, and they were taking advantage of that to create contact.”

Iisalo added, “In this league, players have become so talented that they immediately identify this type of situation. And it doesn’t just concern stars. All players are able to feel that with a hand too close to the body, they can secure a foul. We necessitate to do better on this point.”

The Grizzlies currently concede the sixth-most free throw attempts per game in the league over their last ten contests, averaging 25.8 opponent free throw attempts. This trend highlights a broader issue with discipline and defensive positioning that is impacting the team’s performance down the stretch.

Jackson’s frustration was further illustrated by an exchange with Houston Rockets reserve Tari Eason during the game. According to Jackson, Eason told him, “You’re not KD.” Jackson responded, “On this court, I’m the closest one to him.” This anecdote underscores Jackson’s feeling that he and his teammates are held to a different standard than established stars like Durant.

Whereas Jackson acknowledged Durant’s status as one of the game’s greats, he emphasized that the Grizzlies are equally committed to playing hard and competing. “It’s crazy to see how generous the referees can be with certain players,” he said. “He’s one of the best, so I respect that, but we play hard too and give it our all.”

GG Jackson is currently averaging 12 points per game this season, and scored 14 points in the loss to Houston. His stats for the 2025-26 season indicate he is averaging 4.5 shots per game, making 49.3% of his attempts, and 1.1 three-pointers per game at a 32.6% clip. He is too averaging 1.9 of 2.6 free throws, 0.9 offensive rebounds, 3.4 defensive rebounds, and 1.4 assists.

The Grizzlies will look to break their losing streak on Monday when they face the San Antonio Spurs at home. The game is scheduled for 8:00 PM Central Time (UTC-5). The team will need to address their foul trouble and find ways to generate more offense if they hope to turn their season around.

What are your thoughts on GG Jackson’s comments? Do you think veteran players receive preferential treatment from NBA referees? Share your opinions in the comments below.