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Harden rips 'arrogant' ref Scott Foster after fouling out vs. Lakers

Harry How / Getty Images Sport / Getty

James Harden reached the 30-point mark for the 32nd straight game in Thursday's loss to the Los Angeles Lakers, but that won't be the main talking point heading into Friday.

The Houston Rockets star fouled out late in the fourth quarter. Veteran referee Scott Foster was responsible for two of Harden's four offensive fouls in the game, and the league's leading scorer didn't hesitate to voice his concerns afterward.

"Scott Foster man, I never really talk about officiating but just rude and arrogant," Harden told Jonathan Feigen of the Houston Chronicle. "I mean, you aren't able to talk to him throughout the game. It's not even that call. It's who he is on the floor. It's pretty frustrating."

Harden wasn't done there, as the 29-year-old recalled last season's action involving Foster.

"Last year in the postseason, in the Western Conference finals, I think he officiated a couple of our games," Harden continued, according to Feigen. "It's lingering. It has to be looked at. For sure it's personal. For sure. I don't think he should be able to officiate our games anymore, honestly."

Harden, who hadn't fouled out this season prior to Thursday, wasn't the only Rockets player to hold a grudge against Foster after the contest. Chris Paul chimed in as well.

"I don't know what else to do," Paul said when asked about the official, according to Rachel Nichols of ESPN. "I've met with the league with him before. I don't know what else to do."

It doesn't get any easier for the Rockets this weekend, as Houston's road trip continues with a game at Golden State on Saturday.

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