Game 4 between the Houston Rockets and Golden State Warriors had no shortage of fireworks both on and off the ball. But in a matchup filled with hard fouls and intense defense, a moment between Jimmy Butler III and Dillon Brooks sent fans into a frenzy. TNT’s cameras caught what appeared to be some spicy words exchanged, sparking massive conversation across social media.
And while the Rockets tried to hang tough, Butler and the Warriors made sure to have the final say. Let’s break down the viral moment that’s got everyone talking.
Jimmy Butler III Lets Dillon Brooks Hear It at the Free-Throw Line
During the second quarter, while Tari Eason was at the free-throw line, Butler and Brooks stood side by side. That’s when TNT’s cameras zoomed in and caught a heated Butler appearing to throw a verbal jab at Brooks.
Butler seemed to be calling Brooks, “You a bum and a b****.”
Brooks didn’t look too rattled by the exchange, even flashing a slight smile as if he was proud of getting under Butler’s skin. However, Butler’s face said otherwise. When the referee checked if the profanity was directed at him, Butler quickly clarified that his words were meant for the Rockets’ forward.
In the end, it was Butler who got the last laugh. Golden State battled to a 109-106 victory, taking a commanding 3–1 lead in the series. Game 5 now shifts back to Houston, where the Rockets will try to keep their season alive.
Butler Turns Up the Heat at the Right Time
Butler didn’t just talk the talk, he delivered when it mattered most.
Heading into Game 4, there were real doubts about whether he would even play. But once he suited up, Butler reminded everyone why he’s one of the most dangerous postseason players in the NBA.
Butler had a quiet start, finishing the first half with just four points, two rebounds, two assists, and a block. But after halftime, he flipped the switch. The six-time All-Star exploded in the third quarter, setting the tone for the Warriors’ comeback.
He ended the night with 27 points, five rebounds, and six assists, shooting an efficient 7-of-12 from the floor and 1-of-2 from 3-point range.
His biggest contributions came when the pressure was highest. In the final minutes, Butler knocked down five clutch free throws, helping seal the Warriors’ narrow three-point win.
Not only that, he also sent a message to Brooks in the postgame talk.
“Somebody said something to me,” Butler said. “That’s all it takes. Someone to say something to me — gets me going every single time… There are mics underneath the goal, you can hear it.”
Butler was clearly hyped up. It was the kind of performance Golden State needed and exactly what they’ll continue to count on as they push deeper into the playoffs.