With less than a minute remaining in Game 3 of the NBA Finals, Kevin Durant drained a pull-up 3-pointer which gave the Golden State Warriors a six-point lead. Many were quick to point out that Durant’s dagger was the same as last year. But the Cleveland Cavaliers’ LeBron James showcased his superhuman memory once again. The Cavs forward disagreed that it was a similar shot as last year’s.
As reported by Anthony Slater of The Athletic, James said:
“Wasn’t the same shot. The one he made tonight was about 4 or 5 feet behind the one from last year.”
Perhaps the fans immediately recalled last year’s play as it had a similar effect and circumstances. They were both pull-up 3-pointers that served as daggers.
But James — tagged as the greatest player of his generation — let everyone knew that yes, they were similar, but not exactly the same. His comment reveals the level of precision he applies to the game.
James finished with 33 points, 10 rebounds, and 11 assists. He shot 46.4 percent from the field. On the defensive end, he tallied two blocks and two steals.
Though the Cavaliers as a whole had an impressive showing, it simply wasn’t enough against the Warriors. Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson struggled with just 11 and 10 points, respectively. But Durant picked up the slack and dropped 43 points.
The Warriors simply have too many weapons. The Cavaliers, meanwhile, only have James and his superhuman memory. And after three games, it seems like these tools will never be enough to topple a powerhouse.
Game 4 will still be in Cleveland, Friday, June 8, 9 p.m. ET.