In the early goings of Tuesday’s Thunder-Pacers preseason game, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s reaction to a foul went viral. After extending his arm on a drive to the basket against Pacers forward Kelly Oubre Jr., SGA was whistled for an offensive foul. This call led a disgusted Gilgeous-Alexander to make a face as he walked to the other end of the floor.

From the looks of it, this sequence involving the Thunder star is an example of NBA officials taking a more punitive stance on push-offs, as instructed by the league this season. Gilgeous-Alexander, who has long been labeled a “foul merchant” for his crafty style of play, will likely have to adjust to the stricter officiating. Fans, however, did not hesitate to call him out after his reaction made the rounds on the internet.

“its over for him,” one fan tweeted.

As reported by ESPN’s Ben Golliver on Sept. 30, NBA referees will be judging push-off situations on the basis of the “Four Fs” framework, which consists of feeling, firming, force, and full extension.

According to Golliver, players are allowed to “feel” their opponent with their off arm or “firm up” by gathering themselves in front of their defender. However, if a ball handler makes contact with “force” using their off arm or “fully extends” it to gain an advantage, they will be whistled for an offensive foul.

“I Think I’m the Best Player in the NBA”: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Gets Candid on Standing Within the League

Though Shai Gilgeous-Alexander may have to make some adjustments in terms of his style of play, his confidence still appears to be on point.

In an interview with TIME magazine, Gilgeous-Alexander stated that he was second to none in the league.

“Yeah, I think I’m the best player in the league. The production that I have night in and night out is best-in-the-NBA production.”

Having averaged 31.1 points per game last season, the two-time NBA MVP has a strong case for the title that he’s claiming. His adjustments to the officiating, of course, will be something to watch out for as he looks to lead the Thunder to the mountaintop once again.

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