RJ Barrett made NBA playoffs history on Friday night with a dagger three in overtime to help his hometown Toronto Raptors franchise force a Game 7 against the Cleveland Cavaliers. He hit the game-winner in the final 2 seconds of OT to avoid elimination.
What happened?
The shot hit the back rim and bounced high above the backboard before falling through the net, securing the win for the Raptors.
Why it matters for RJ Barrett
This moment is unprecedented in the play-by-play era, as Barrett is the first player to hit a game-winner in the final 2 seconds of OT to avoid elimination.
RJ Barrett explained why this moment meant more to him since it came with the Raptors, not the New York Knicks, his former franchise.
What comes next?
Ahead of Sunday's Game 7, Barrett urged his teammates to forget everything that has happened in the series thus far.
Barrett acknowledged the similarities to Tyrese Haliburton's Game 1 winner against the Knicks in the Eastern Conference Finals last year.
Cavaliers star Donovan Mitchell was reminded of the Kawhi Leonard shot from 2019, as the latter was also made at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto.
The Raptors will face the Cavaliers in Game 7 on Sunday, with the winner advancing to the next round of the playoffs.
RJ Barrett's performance has been impressive, and he will look to continue his strong play in the decisive Game 7.
The stage is set for an exciting conclusion to the series, with the Raptors and Cavaliers ready to battle it out for a spot in the next round.