Clippers Lose, Technically

Andre Miller’s tendency to cross the foul line before his free throws hit the rim cost him dearly Wednesday night.

Miller was called for a lane violation after making a go-ahead free throw with the game tied, 104-104, with one second left in regulation. The free throw was nullified, Miller missed the second attempt and the Clippers went on to lose, 118-114, in overtime to the Houston Rockets.

“It wasn’t a violation, it’s always Andre,” said Clipper center Sean Rooks. “I guess he just has a habit of falling across the line. They’ve called it on him at least seven times.”

“It’s obviously a habit of his they’re paying attention to,” Rooks added. “They [referees] line themselves up at the foul line and look for it.”

NBA referees have been told to crack down on the violation this season, and Miller has been one of their primary targets. Under league rules, a player cannot cross the foul line after shooting the ball until it reaches the rim.

Miller has a habit of letting his momentum carry him into the lane too soon.

“I’m not talking,” Miller said. “No comment.”

Teammate Cherokee Parks, who scored a season-high 18 points, was upset by the call.

“I’ve never seen that. I don’t know who makes up our rules. It’s a technicality. With the game on the line, it’s really frustrating,” Parks said.

Steve Francis and Glen Rice led Houston with 25 points each, Francis scoring six in overtime. Houston had tied the score with 13 seconds left in regulation on three-point baskets by Francis and Rice.

In the final seconds of overtime, the Rockets sank six free throws, two each by Francis, Rice and Cuttino Mobley, to secure the victory.

Corey Maggette led the Clippers with 29 points