In a stunning display of skill and precision, Kyrie Irving secured a memorable victory for the Dallas Mavericks with a 20-foot left-handed hook shot against the Denver Nuggets. This was his second NBA career game-winning buzzer-beater.
“I thought I got a little closer in the paint, but I looked at it after the game and I was pretty far out,” Irving said.
This remarkable shot is the season’s second-longest hook shot, showcasing Irving’s exceptional ability to perform under pressure. Nuggets coach Michael Malone praised Irving’s effort, acknowledging the difficulty of the feat.
“Hell of a shot by Kyrie,” Malone conceded.
Irving’s knack for making the improbable look routine is highlighted by his previous longest hook shot of the season against the Portland Trail Blazers. These moments are a testament to Irving’s dedication to refining his skills, particularly his proficiency with his offhand, which he credits for his ability to pull off such a significant game-winner.
The play unfolded with Irving receiving an inbounds pass from Maxi Kleber, maneuvering past Nikola Jokic with two left-handed dribbles before releasing the decisive hook shot. Irving’s preparation and instinctual play were crucial.
“Man, majority of it is instinctual and comes from preparation for hours that no one sees,” he explained, detailing his thought process in overcoming Jokic’s defensive strategy.
Luka Doncic, Irving’s teammate and the NBA scoring leader known for his own shot-making prowess, was left in awe of Irving’s shot.
“That shot was unbelievable, man,” Doncic exclaimed.
The game was a rollercoaster of emotions, with the Mavericks leading by 13 points, thanks to a synergy between Irving and Doncic, before the Nuggets clawed back to briefly lead.
Doncic’s tie-breaking three-pointer set the stage for Irving’s dramatic buzzer-beater, which encapsulated the competitive spirit and skill level in the NBA.
Irving acknowledged Doncic’s crucial role in the game’s outcome, praising his contribution and setting up the narrative for the unforgettable finish.
“I give a lot of credit to him and getting us to that position and then allowing me to get that game-winner at the end,” Irving said.
More must-reads: