From the moment the ball left Luka Doncic’s hand, Dorian Finney-Smith knew the Brooklyn Nets were in trouble. Having been a former teammate of Doncic’s, Finney-Smith had witnessed the Slovenian star make countless remarkable shots during their time together. However, this particular shot surpassed them all. Doncic banked in a go-ahead 3-pointer with just 26.1 seconds remaining in the game, ultimately sealing the victory for the Dallas Mavericks. Doncic himself admitted that this shot was the most difficult he has ever made during a game.
The play leading up to the game-winner was a testament to Doncic’s resilience and skill. With the score tied at 120, Doncic faced double-team pressure from both Finney-Smith and Royce O’Neale. Doncic had his back to the basket, with Finney-Smith tightly guarding him. Undeterred, Doncic pivoted towards the sideline and, with a three-quarters arm angle reminiscent of a relief pitcher, launched a high-arching hook shot that miraculously found the bottom of the net. Even Doncic himself was amazed by his own shot, expressing uncertainty about how he managed to make it.
Laughter and Disbelief Among the Mavericks
The shot was so extraordinary that it left several Mavericks players chuckling and shaking their heads in utter disbelief during the ensuing timeout called by the Nets. Finney-Smith, who had a front-row seat to Doncic’s remarkable shot, acknowledged that he had seen similar shots from Doncic many times before. He revealed that Doncic often practices these seemingly impossible shots and that his teammates had become accustomed to his shot-making abilities. However, Finney-Smith acknowledged that their defensive strategy should have prevented Doncic from receiving the ball in the first place. Nevertheless, he applauded Doncic’s incredible shot, emphasizing that even without a clear view of the rim, Doncic still managed to convert.
Did Doncic Call ‘Bank’?
Amid the astonishment and celebration, questions arose regarding whether Doncic had called ‘bank’ on his game-winning shot. Finney-Smith debunked this speculation, vehemently denying that Doncic had made such a call. Doncic, with a playful smirk on his face, responded by saying that he had actually said it in Slovenian to ensure that Finney-Smith wouldn’t understand. As the debate continued, the focus quickly shifted to the sheer brilliance of the shot itself and the impact it had on the game’s outcome.
Even the Mavericks’ head coach, Jason Kidd, confessed that he was yelling for a timeout in the moments before Doncic’s incredible shot. Kidd believed that Doncic was trapped and wanted to draw up an out-of-bounds play. Fortunately for Dallas, the officials didn’t hear Kidd’s timeout request, allowing Doncic the opportunity to work his magic. Kidd commended Doncic’s love for these high-pressure situations and his ability to consistently excel in them. He credited Doncic’s unwavering practice and preparation, even for shots that seem beyond comprehension.
A Night of Records for Doncic
Doncic’s performance throughout the game was nothing short of exceptional. Alongside his unforgettable game-winner, Doncic recorded 49 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists without a single turnover. His shooting was a highlight as well, going 16 of 25 from the floor and an impressive 9 of 14 from beyond the arc. The game-winner not only secured the victory for the Mavs but also marked a new career high for Doncic in made 3-pointers.
Luka Doncic’s incredible shot against the Brooklyn Nets will be remembered for years to come. While his former teammate, Dorian Finney-Smith, found humor in the situation, there was no denying the sheer greatness of Doncic’s shot-making ability. With each awe-inspiring play, Doncic cements his status as one of the most talented and clutch players in the NBA. As for the game-winner, it will forever be etched in the memories of Mavericks fans as a testament to Doncic’s determination, skill, and his unwavering ability to defy the odds.
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