Doris Burke left fans up in arms with her commentary for Thunder-Timberwolves Game 4
Share and Follow

ESPN commentator Doris Burke had the internet baffled Monday night during Game 4 between the Timberwolves and Thunder. 

During a conversation about Rudy Gobert from France and Isaiah Hartenstein, who has German heritage, the experienced presenter brought up the historical rivalry between the French and Germans in an unusual manner.

“And I don’t know much about history, but I know the French and German don’t like one another. And Rudy says, ‘Bonjour, Mr. Hartenstein!’ Have a little bit of that left-handed dunk!” Burke said. 

The comment led to play-by-play announcer Mike Breen to interject, “What are you trying to start here?”


Doris Burke and Angel Gray look on during the game between he Memphis Grizzlies and the Dallas Mavericks on March 7, 2025 at American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas.
Doris Burke and Angel Gray look on during the game between he Memphis Grizzlies and the Dallas Mavericks on March 7, 2025 at American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. NBAE via Getty Images

It’s unclear exactly what Burke was trying to refer to, but the French and Germans were rivals in each of the World Wars.

“Cringe,” one X user wrote in response to Burke’s comments.

“Did Doris Burke just make a WWE2 joke,” another user posted with a photo of puzzled Shaquille O’Neal.

Burke is a somewhat polarizing broadcaster among certain fan bases.

The Sporting News noted another comment she made during the broadcast that likely created some angst among the viewers at home. 

Burke said during one of the fouls that Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander drew that it was “why he’s called the free throw merchant.”

The comment had been a reference to the conversation about Gilgeous-Alexander’s foul-drawing tactics.

“There is no way she should be saying this on air, shoutout to [Richard Jefferson] for sticking up and understanding,” one account on social media complained. 


Richard Jefferson,Doris Burke and Mike Breen before the Los Angeles Lakers v Minnesota Timberwolves game during Round 1 Game 4 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on April 27, 2025
Richard Jefferson,Doris Burke and Mike Breen before the Los Angeles Lakers v Minnesota Timberwolves game during Round 1 Game 4 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on April 27, 2025 NBAE via Getty Images

NBA fans will be hearing Burke a bit more going forward with ESPN carrying the NBA Finals after the Western Conference crowns a conference champ. 

The Thunder currently lead the Western Conference finals, 3-1, after they defeated the Thunder, 128-126, on Monday night.

Share and Follow
You May Also Like
Zelenskyy says meeting with Trump to happen 'in the near future'

Zelenskyy Announces Upcoming Meeting with Trump Planned for the Near Future

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced plans to meet with U.S. President Donald…
Virginia vs. Missouri prediction: Odds, picks, best bet for Gator Bowl

Virginia vs. Missouri Gator Bowl Showdown: Expert Predictions, Betting Odds, and Top Picks Revealed

Gambling content 21+. The New York Post may receive an affiliate commission…
California family revives beloved Christmas tradition with surprise sleepover visit

California Family Reinvigorates Cherished Christmas Tradition with Unforeseen Sleepover Reunion

A family in California has revived a cherished Christmas tradition, capturing the…
Karoline Leavitt announces she is pregnant with her second child

Exciting News: Karoline Leavitt Reveals She’s Expecting Baby Number Two!

In a heartwarming announcement, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt shared the…
'It's great to see': Fans fill Jacksonville ahead of Gator Bowl kickoff

Jacksonville Buzzes with Excitement as Fans Flock to Gator Bowl Kickoff

Supporters from Missouri and Virginia are eagerly descending upon Jacksonville, bringing their…
Iranian president says his country is at 'total war' with the US, Israel and Europe: reports

Iran Declares ‘Total War’ Against US, Israel, and Europe Amid Escalating Tensions: President’s Bold Statement Sparks Global Concern

Huckabee says Iran’s ‘ultimate goal is to destroy the US’ At a…
Palisades councilmember blasts city after shocking doc on wildfires

Palisades Councilmember Criticizes City Following Revealing Documentary on Wildfires

An LA City Council member representing the Palisades has voiced concerns that…
Year-end tax trap if you don't act BEFORE December 31: Expert guide

Avoid the Year-End Tax Trap: Expert Tips to Maximize Savings Before December 31

A unique twist in Donald Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act is…