National Basketball Association

Rockets' Howard upset by being called a cheater

Updated Mar. 4, 2020 5:00 p.m. ET

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OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) Dwight Howard doesn't like being branded a cheater.

The NBA is reviewing the Houston Rockets center's use of a sticky substance on his hands during Houston's loss to the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday night. Atlanta's Paul Millsap complained about the ball while shooting free throws with 3:36 remaining in the first quarter. Howard had made a layup before Millsap's free throws.

Howard said Monday that the situation is overblown, and he has used the substance for the past five years without being asked about it. He said he uses the spray for grip, and noted many players use sprays and powders for that purpose.

Rockets coach J.B. Bickerstaff said the league interviewed him Sunday night, but he hasn't been notified of any disciplinary action.