GG Jackson Sees NBA Officials Favor Veterans Like Kevin Durant

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Memphis Grizzlies forward GG Jackson accuses NBA officials of giving veteran stars such as Kevin Durant softer treatment, describing several calls as unfair during a 119-109 defeat to the Houston Rockets. Jackson focuses on contact calls involving Durant and says the whistle consistently went against younger players.

Jackson argues that defenders were penalised even when contests appeared clean on replay. During one sequence, Jackson says Durant drew a foul despite limited contact, which increased Jackson’s frustration as the game slipped from the Grizzlies’ control in key late possessions.

Describing one play, Jackson said: "KD can jab step and jab step and just jump up and down and your hand is right there," said Jackson, in his third season out of South Carolina. "[You] clearly see on the replay that nobody touched him. It's unbelievable how the refs can suck up to somebody. He's the GOAT, so I respect that, but as far as us other guys, we bust our [tails] like he does."

Jackson also recalls Rockets forward Tari Eason telling Jackson during protests that Jackson was not on Durant’s level. After the game, Jackson insisted that he belonged near that standard, stating: "On this court, I'm the closest one to him [Durant]."

On the floor, Durant led Houston with 25 points, 10 assists and six rebounds in the win. The 37-year-old converted six of seven free throws, including four during the third quarter. Overall, the Rockets attempted 26 free throws, while the Grizzlies finished with 18 trips.

The scoring table also told a mixed story for Memphis. Jackson struggled, making only five of his 14 field-goal attempts across the night. Olivier Maxence-Prosper carried much of the offensive load, scoring 31 points and helping the Grizzlies remain competitive until the closing minutes.

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Beyond this single matchup, the result reflects each team’s wider season path. Memphis falls to 24-49, continuing a rebuilding phase with significant minutes for younger players like Jackson and Maxence-Prosper. Houston improves to 44-29 and holds sixth place in the Western Conference standings.

Jackson’s comments highlight an ongoing debate across the NBA about how officials handle contact for stars versus developing players. While Jackson repeated respect for Durant’s status and achievements, Jackson maintains that younger teammates deserve consistent calls as the Grizzlies navigate a difficult season.