Lu Dort recently drew criticism from basketball fans and media outlets, who labeled him a “dirty” player. Dort is one of the Oklahoma City Thunder’s enforcers, known for his physical style of play and determination to secure possessions for the team.
While physicality is a normal aspect of basketball, Dort’s approach has been perceived differently by some observers. The Thunder forward recently addressed the criticism he is facing.
Lu Dort Discusses Being Labeled a ‘Dirty’ Player
Last Friday, the Thunder faced the Denver Nuggets in a heated contest. Oklahoma City secured a 127-121 overtime victory, but the game was marked by controversy.
During the fourth quarter, Dort collided with Nikola Jokić in an off-the-ball sequence. As Cameron Johnson inbounded the ball to Christian Braun, Dort extended his leg into Jokić’s path, causing the Denver star to stumble to the floor.
Jokić, who recently recovered from a hyperextended left knee and bone bruise that sidelined him for 16 games from December to January, was visibly upset and immediately confronted Dort. The Thunder forward was ejected after receiving a flagrant foul 2 violation, sparking the “dirty” label.
Because the incident involved Jokić’s previously injured knee, many fans and media members interpreted Dort’s actions as intentional.
Dort, however, rejected that characterization. He defended his style of play and insisted his approach should not be considered malicious.
“I don’t think I’m dirty,” Dort told The Athletic. “I can’t control the media. The media always wants to have some type of attention or anything. They want that buzz. I can’t control that.
“I’ve been doing well with this organization for years now. I’m happy with how I play and what I do with my teammates. I go out there and compete every night. So I’m gonna keep doing what I do on the court, and then let the media judge the way they want to judge. I’m not dirty.”
Still, he admitted that he crossed the line in the play involving Jokić.
“It was a physical game throughout the whole game,” Dort said. “Obviously, that was unnecessary contact that I shouldn’t have done. I got the worst of it by getting thrown out the game. But yeah, it was a high-level game. I’m a competitor, so I compete.
“That’s a physical game, and there’s limits to it. And, I went over the limit.”
Despite the criticism, the Thunder appear committed to Dort. He is currently in his seventh season with the team.
