Los Angeles Clippers forward Nic Batum committed an embarrassing mistake that proved costly in the final moments of Friday night's NBA game in San Antonio.
Batum subbed in with 16 seconds left in regulation with the Clips down 113-112 after having blown a 25-point lead. He was given the responsibility of making the inbounds pass from the sideline. He passed it to Brook Lopez near half-court as he was left uncovered. Lopez immediately passed the ball back to Batum, who was standing on the sideline and apparently not expecting the ball.
Batum was called out of bounds, giving the ball back to the Spurs with 14.9 seconds left, and immediately subbed out of the game by head coach Tyronn Lue, who clearly was not happy with the turn of events.
FOURTH QUARTER YELLING WHY THE F*** BATUM IN ðŸ˜ðŸ˜
— Hater Report (@HaterReport) March 7, 2026
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We have seen some NBA players have embarrassing moments on the court this year, but not something at a critical juncture of the game that had such an adverse impact in the game.
Batum finished with 6 points in 17 minutes of action, but this disastrous moment will probably stick with him for a while. The Spurs won the game 116-112 for their largest comeback victory of the season.
Moonlighting as a blogger to pursue my interest and enjoyment of sports. Former high school and Division I athlete (now a "retired" family man) that loves watching and discussing all sports. Follow me on Twitter (@HoldoutSports).
