Looney saves reporter from flying basketball during interview

Golden State Warriors center Kevon Looney showcased his quick reflexes during a pregame interview on Tuesday. He was talking to NBC Sports reporter Kerith Burke before the Warriors played the Milwaukee Bucks at Chase Center in San Francisco. While Looney was discussing "good defense," a stray basketball flew towards Burke. Without hesitation, he stepped in to protect her from the incoming ball. This led to a surprising moment, as Burke smiled in disbelief while Looney calmly returned to the interview. The scene echoed a similar incident involving Tampa Bay Rays star Evan Longoria. In that case, Longoria saved a reporter from a line drive during a staged advertisement. However, Looney's act was genuine and spontaneous, highlighting his quick thinking. At 29 years old, Looney has been a dependable player for the Warriors for nearly ten years. Although he has never averaged more than 7.0 points per game, his teammate has suggested retiring his jersey in the future. His quick intervention on Tuesday may have strengthened that case.