In a lively Game 4 matchup between the Timberwolves and Thunder on Monday night, a comment from veteran ESPN broadcaster Doris Burke sparked a flurry of reactions online. Burke was discussing the contrasting backgrounds of players Rudy Gobert and Isaiah Hartenstein, and in a moment of trying to bridge the conversation, she brought up the historical rivalry between France and Germany.
Her phrase, “And I don’t know much about history, but I know the French and Germans don’t like one another. And Rudy says, ‘Bonjour, Mr. Hartenstein! Have a little bit of that left-handed dunk!’” caused a stir in the broadcasting booth. Play-by-play announcer Mike Breen quickly chimed in, asking Burke, “What are you trying to start here?” It was one of those moments that left both fans and commentators puzzled.
Social media lit up following the comment, with one user describing it as “cringe,” while another likened it to an awkward WWE moment, sharing a tweet featuring a bemused Shaquille O’Neal. For Burke, known for her blend of intuitive analysis and real-time commentary, this incident certainly carved out its space in the game’s narrative.
Adding to the intrigue, Burke made another eyebrow-raising remark during the broadcast about Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, referring to him as a “free throw merchant” after he drew a foul. This comment, while perhaps intended to spotlight Gilgeous-Alexander’s effectiveness at getting to the line, didn’t sit well with everyone. Fans took to Twitter to voice their discontent, emphasizing that such terminology might not belong in a professional broadcast despite the audience’s mixed feelings about Burke’s style.
Fortunately for basketball enthusiasts, Burke’s presence will continue to be felt, as ESPN carries the NBA Finals after the conclusion of the Western Conference finals. With the Thunder currently leading that series 3-1, fans can expect more colorful commentary as the stakes get even higher in the ensuing games. As always, the drama of basketball extends beyond the court, igniting discussions that span history, tactics, and everything in between.
