In the 2nd quarter of the Clippers’ embarrassing 140-100 loss to Phoenix last night, Zach Randolph blasted the Suns’ Louis Amundson with a left cross after the two got tangled up in the paint. Why would Zach launch such a zinger into an opponent’s mug just three days removed from Valentine’s Day? Randolph claims that Amundson was getting a little too amorous.

(C’mon, Zach - how do you say no to those eyes?)

I know how Zach feels. You’re just minding your own business, playing some hoops out on the court, and then out of nowhere some dude on the other team just steps up and tries to start making out with you. At least, that’s the story Randolph is sticking to for why he slugged Amundson. Amundson is kind of a pretty boy, rocking the blond hair and the ponytail, but if Zach was his type of guy he probably would’ve at least waited until garbage time to make his move.

Video of the rebuffed advance after the jump:

The AP (via OREGON LIVE) provides Randolph’s explanation, straight from the horse’s mouth:

Randolph said he was merely trying to push Amundson away. “He hopped up and got in my face and almost kissed me in my mouth,” Randolph said. “I just pushed him out of my face.”

If winding up and clocking someone in the jaw equates to “just pushing him out of my face,” then I guess that works.

And, as if Randolph’s explanation even warranted a response, Amundson just wants to let you know that he’s not looking to take Zach out to see Confessions of a Shopoholic this weekend:

“I was getting in his face, but I wasn’t trying to kiss him.” 

Perhaps Amundson and his long, flowing locks are more of a distraction than ever previously thought. If all his opponents are running around always thinking he’s looking to hook up with them, that’s probably a pretty effective defensive strategy.

*UPDATE*: Zach has been suspended 2 games for his little love tap.