Fans and Booker had alleged that Green punched Booker in the stomach during the clash. Green addressed the matter on his podcast, arguing there was no punch, noting that if a punch had occurred it would be with a closed fist and that official Scott Foster reviewed the play and called an away-from-the-play foul.
The confrontation spilled onto the sideline as Booker stood at the line for a free throw while Green reportedly kept saying, “So, I punched you,” prompting Booker to respond and the back-and-forth to escalate. Green logged 36 minutes in the elimination game, finishing with five points, six assists and two rebounds, while Booker contributed 20 points, eight assists and six rebounds.
Booker downplayed the fracas, framing Green as a fellow fierce competitor who was simply frustrated by the result. “Nothing, man. I’ve been there before,” Booker said, describing Green as someone who loves the sport and thrives in high-pressure environments.
After the night’s events, Green offered nothing but goodwill toward Booker and the Suns, congratulating Phoenix on clinching a playoff berth and emphasizing their personal relationship remains intact. “Book, that’s my young fella. Always have been,” Green said, noting their bond dates back to high school and that the moment was more about competitive tension than a personal feud.
