THE SPORTSMISTAKES RECORD

Phantom Foul on Kareem

1988 • NBA • Referee Mistake • Foul Call
Phantom Foul on Kareem — SportsMistakes artwork

THE STORY

In Game 6 of the 1988 NBA Finals on June 19, the Los Angeles Lakers trailed the Detroit Pistons 102–101 with 14 seconds remaining. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar attempted a skyhook over Bill Laimbeer, who was called for a foul, resulting in his sixth foul and disqualification. Abdul-Jabbar made both free throws, leading the Lakers to a 103–102 victory and forcing a decisive Game 7, which they won to clinch the championship. (en.wikipedia.org)

TEAMS / PEOPLE: Los Angeles Lakers, Detroit Pistons

WHY IT MATTERS

The 'phantom foul' remains a contentious moment in NBA history, with debates over its impact on the Pistons' potential three-peat. (detroitbadboys.com)

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