Zidan's dribble on NBA court!

A new unusual moment was witnessed in the NBA, with referees once again taking center stage. Increasingly, in the world's strongest basketball league, officials are turning a blind eye to blatant traveling violations, leading to frequent complaints from basketball fans. In recent times, carrying the ball has also been widely tolerated, with players like Luka Doncic and LeBron James being the most notable offenders. Referees often give the league’s biggest stars preferential treatment, to the point where it has become unclear what constitutes a carry or a travel.

Giannis Antetokounmpo also presents a major challenge for officials with his "gather step"—the first step after securing the ball. This often makes it look like he’s taking three steps, though by rule, he isn’t. And now, it seems referees have started allowing foot play as well.

One of the most famous instances of kicking the ball in the NBA was Iman Shumpert’s legendary pass, where he flicked the ball with his heel, soccer-style, to a teammate in the opposite corner. That moment became a staple of NBA highlight compilations and remained a unique case—until now.

Jayson Tatum may have just topped it. The Boston Celtics star lost control of the ball on a fast break, and after a chaotic bounce, it ended up behind his back. Reacting instinctively, Tatum raised his foot and, with the elegance of a soccer great like Zinedine Zidane, flicked the ball back into his hands with his heel before finishing the layup.

Opposing players threw up their hands in disbelief, looking toward the referee—but the basket stood.

NBA RESULTS FROM LAST NIGHT

Wizards - Magic 105 - 120

Heat - Rockets 98 - 102

Timberwolves - Pelicans 134 - 93

Thunder - Hornets 141 - 106

Spurs - 76ers 128 - 120

Mavericks - Pistons 123 - 117

Jazz - Celtics 99 - 121

Suns - Cavaliers 123 - 112

Trail Blazers - Nuggets 128 - 109

Clippers - Grizzlies 128 - 108