LeBron chides refs after Westbrook awarded game-tying free throws

It took overtime, but the Los Angeles Lakers beat the Oklahoma City Thunder 138-128 on Thursday night. However, the Lakers presumably believe the game shouldn't have gone to the extra frame.

With Oklahoma City down three and seconds left in regulation, Lonzo Ball initiated contact with dribbling Thunder star Russell Westbrook, looking to prevent a last-second 3-point attempt.

Upon contact, Westbrook immediately pulled up for a 3-pointer. The shot missed, but Ball's foul was deemed to have taken place in the act of shooting, sending Westbrook to the free-throw line with a chance to extend the game.

Westbrook hit all three of his foul shots, tying the game and forcing overtime after the Lakers failed to score on their ensuing possession.

The foul call drew the attention of Lakers superstar LeBron James, who's currently out of action with a groin strain. He tweeted at the National Basketball Referees Association seeking clarification on the ruling:

The Lakers went on to outscore the Thunder 16-6 in overtime, with Ball recording five points, two rebounds, and an assist to make up for his earlier foul.

Once the final score was in the books, James' online demeanor took a turn for the better.

After the game, referee Tom Washington admitted to the pool reporter that James was actually correct and the foul on Ball should have been a non-shooting infraction.