Brandon's arm position is pretty typical for a box out. Players are taught this technique to seal the guy from getting a rebound. It is done all the time. Watch BYU play, they employ the same tactic (as does every NBA and college team) when a shot is in the air. Having said that, the two were jawing all game both players were grabbing and clutching throughout the game. Nick let the emotion get to him and we saw what happened. (which tends to happen when you have lost the game)