ATLANTA – The Atlanta Hawks are riding a wave of momentum, securing their eleventh consecutive victory Wednesday night with a 135-120 win over the Dallas Mavericks. But the game will be remembered for more than just the score. it featured a stunning, improbable shot from Hawks guard Jonathan Kuminga that is quickly becoming a viral sensation and rewriting the team’s record books. The incredible basket, a 75-foot heave at the buzzer to complete the third quarter, has propelled discussion around Kuminga’s performance and the Hawks’ current hot streak.
The play unfolded as Kuminga secured a defensive rebound near his own basket with just seconds remaining in the third quarter. Instead of driving towards the net, he launched a full-court pass intended for Jock Landale. The pass, however, had a trajectory all its own, arcing through the air and dropping cleanly through the hoop. The improbable shot sent the Atlanta crowd into a frenzy and left even Kuminga himself visibly stunned. The Hawks’ play-by-play announcer, Bob Rathbun, captured the moment with excitement, calling it an unbelievable play. WSB-TV reports the basket is now the longest made by a Hawks player in the play-by-play era.
Kuminga’s Shot Breaks Franchise Record
The 75-foot shot surpassed the previous Hawks franchise record of 63 feet, set by Jason Terry on January 5, 2000. According to Fox News, Kuminga’s shot also ranks as the sixth-longest successful shot in NBA history since the 1997-98 season, as tracked by Elias Sports. The longest field goal ever recorded in the NBA remains a 27-meter shot by Baron Davis in 2001 while playing for the Charlotte Hornets.
Hawks Continue Winning Streak
The Hawks’ victory over the Mavericks marks their eleventh straight win, a streak that has propelled them to the No. 8 seed in the Eastern Conference. The team’s success is a testament to their improved play and team chemistry. They will appear to extend their winning streak to twelve games on Friday with a road game against the Houston Rockets, before returning home to face the Golden State Warriors on Saturday. The franchise record for consecutive wins stands at 19, achieved during the 2014-15 season.
A Look at Kuminga’s Season
Jonathan Kuminga, 23, has become an increasingly crucial player for the Hawks this season. While specific statistics regarding his overall performance weren’t immediately available, his recent contributions, including this remarkable shot, highlight his growing impact on the team. The Hawks are hoping Kuminga can continue to elevate his game as they push for a higher seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs. The team’s success hinges on the continued strong play of Kuminga and other key players.
The referees initially reviewed the play to ensure the shot was valid, checking for potential clock malfunctions and whether Landale had touched the net before the ball went in – a violation. The shot was ultimately confirmed as good, adding to the excitement of the game and solidifying its place in NBA history.
What’s Next for the Hawks?
The Hawks will face a challenging schedule as they attempt to continue their winning streak. Their upcoming game against the Houston Rockets will be a key test, followed by a home game against the Golden State Warriors. The team will need to maintain their focus and intensity to overcome these obstacles and continue their climb in the Eastern Conference standings. Fans can follow the Hawks’ progress and uncover updates on the team’s official website and social media channels.
This remarkable shot by Jonathan Kuminga is a reminder of the unpredictable and exciting nature of basketball. It’s a moment that will be replayed for years to come and it serves as a testament to the skill and athleticism of NBA players. The Hawks’ current success is a story worth watching, and fans are eager to see how far this team can travel.
What do you think of Kuminga’s incredible shot? Share your thoughts in the comments below and be sure to share this story with fellow basketball fans!
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