**PHOENIX** — Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray confirmed Friday night that he and Dillon Brooks are still friends, despite Brooks attempting to relocate their friendship several inches below the waist.
The incident occurred during the third quarter of Denver's 127–120 victory over Phoenix, when Brooks attempted a turnaround jumper and extended his right leg directly into Murray's groin.
Officials reviewed the play and assessed Brooks a Flagrant 2, resulting in an automatic ejection.
Murray, however, defended his fellow Canadian national team member, insisting he didn't believe the kick was intentional.
“We're buddies,” Murray explained afterward, apparently confirming that Canadian friendships operate under considerably more aggressive terms than previously understood.
According to Murray, Brooks was simply attempting a basketball shot, although the NBA has traditionally required players to release the ball without simultaneously attacking their defender's reproductive future.
Brooks, who has spent much of his career expanding the boundaries of acceptable physical contact, appeared to be exploring a revolutionary shooting technique involving two points, three possible free throws, and one emergency ice pack.
The incident also raised concerns about chemistry within Canada's national team, where teammates generally reserve this level of physical contact for opposing countries.
Murray ultimately finished with 39 points, while Brooks contributed 22 before departing.
Denver won the game, Murray survived the encounter, and Brooks once again demonstrated that even his friendships occasionally require officiating reviews.
The two Canadians remain close.
Although Murray may prefer to maintain a little more distance next time.
