From the moment Luka Doncic released the ball, Dorian Finney-Smith knew that the Brooklyn Nets were about to witness something extraordinary. Finney-Smith, having played with Doncic during their time together with the Dallas Mavericks, had seen his fair share of extraordinary shots from the Slovenian sensation. Whether it was during casual practice sessions or in crunch time, Doncic always managed to amaze with his shot-making ability. This instance was no different, as Doncic declared his go-ahead three-pointer, which he banked off the glass with 26.1 seconds remaining, to be the most difficult shot he had ever made in a game.
A Scintillating Sequence of Events
With the score tied at 120, Doncic found himself in a precarious situation. He was forced to give up the ball twice before receiving it back from Maxi Kleber on the right wing, with only three seconds remaining on the shot clock. At this point, Finney-Smith and Royce O’Neale double-teamed Doncic, with him having his back to the basket and Finney-Smith tightly guarding him. In a moment of sheer brilliance, Doncic pivoted towards the sideline and, with a three-quarters arm angle resembling that of a relief pitcher, launched a high-arching hook shot that incredibly banked in. It was a shot that left everyone in awe, including Doncic himself.
The shot was so unbelievable that even Doncic’s teammates were unable to contain their laughter during the ensuing timeout called by the Nets. Finney-Smith, who had spent 6 ½ seasons with the Mavericks before being traded to Brooklyn, admitted that he had seen Doncic make such shots countless times before. While he found it impossible to fault Doncic, he believed that preventing him from getting the ball back would have been the best option. The sheer improbability of the shot only intensified the sense of disbelief among the Mavericks players. It was a moment that will be etched in their memories forever.
A Humble Hero
Doncic, who had dropped 49 points in the game, with 14 of them coming in the final quarter, exemplified humility in his post-game comments. Despite his incredible performance and the impossibility of the game-winning shot, Doncic remained modest. When asked if he had called bank on the shot, Finney-Smith vehemently denied it, shaking his head and stating that Doncic better not claim otherwise. Doncic, with a mischievous smile, revealed that he had actually said it in Slovenian to ensure that Finney-Smith wouldn’t understand. This exchange showcased Doncic’s playful nature and the camaraderie within the Mavericks team.
A Coach’s Frustration Turns to Awe
Even Mavericks coach Jason Kidd, typically composed on the sidelines, couldn’t contain his emotions during the game-winning shot. Kidd confessed that he was shouting for a timeout just moments before Doncic released the ball. He believed that Doncic was “stuck” and intended to draw up an out-of-bounds play. However, the officials didn’t hear Kidd’s request for a timeout, which turned out to be a fortunate turn of events for the Mavericks. Kidd acknowledged that Doncic possesses a unique fondness for late-game situations and incredible shots. The coach marveled at Doncic’s ability to consistently practice and execute such mind-boggling shots that often go unseen.
Doncic’s game-winner capped off a remarkable night for him, as he finished the game with 49 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists, without committing a single turnover. His shooting efficiency was equally impressive, going 16 of 25 from the field, including a career-high nine made three-pointers. Doncic’s performance was a testament to his unrivaled talent and basketball prowess, leaving fans and pundits alike in awe of his extraordinary abilities.
Luka Doncic’s game-winning shot against the Brooklyn Nets will be remembered as one of the most remarkable moments in basketball history. His ability to create and execute such improbable shots is a testament to his skill, dedication, and love for the game. Doncic’s teammates, coaches, and opponents can do nothing but stand in awe of his incomparable brilliance.
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