Phantom Foul in Bulls vs 76ers Scandal

'The Phantom Foul: A True Crime Story of the 1981 Bulls vs. 76ers Playoff Scandal'

'It was the call that changed a series—and maybe the course of NBA history. But was it a referee's honest mistake... or something far more sinister?'

The Crime Scene: May 10, 1981 – Chicago Stadium

The Chicago Bulls, led by a young Reggie Theus and Artis Gilmore, were fighting for survival in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals against Julius Erving’s powerhouse Philadelphia 76ers. The Bulls, down 2-1 in the series, had clawed their way to a 99-98 lead with just three seconds left.

Then, disaster struck.

The Phantom Call

As the 76ers inbounded, Mo Cheeks launched a desperation heave—no shot, no foul, just an airball. But as the buzzer sounded, referee Richie Powers whistled a foul on Bulls forward Cliff Pondexter for allegedly bumping Dr. J.

Replays showed no contact.

Julius Erving, bewildered, stepped to the line and sank two free throws he never should have shot. The 76ers stole the game, 100-99, and eventually the series. The Bulls were eliminated.

The Suspects

Richie Powers – A veteran referee with a history of controversial calls. Was this incompetence… or something else?

The NBA League Office – Rumors swirled that the league wanted the 76ers in the Finals for a marquee matchup against Boston.

Philadelphia’s Influence – Some believed the 76ers’ ownership had undue sway over officials.

The Smoking Gun?

Years later, former NBA referee Tim Donaghy—who was convicted in a betting scandal—claimed that referees manipulated games under league pressure. While he didn’t cite this specific game, many wondered: Was Powers acting alone, or was this part of a larger scheme?

The Aftermath

The Bulls’ promising season ended in heartbreak.

The 76ers advanced, losing to Boston in the Finals.

To this day, Chicago fans swear the game was stolen.

The Verdict

No formal investigation ever took place. Richie Powers continued refereeing until 1986. The NBA denies any wrongdoing. But for those who saw it, the phantom foul remains one of the most suspicious calls in playoff history.

Was it a mistake? Or a crime? The truth may never be known.

Case Unsolved.

Would you like a deeper dive into any part of this story? Maybe witness accounts or theories on league corruption? Let me know!

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