Luka Doncic's step-back 3-point shot in clutch earns 2-word praise from assistant coach
Luka Doncic hit a remarkable three-pointer to seal the Dallas Mavericks' 120-114 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday. Mavericks assistant coach Jared Dudley had the perfect two-word response to encapsulate Luka's late-game heroics.
"Cold blooded @lukadoncic" - Jared Dudley on Instagram
Luka's 32-foot dagger left the Target Center in Minneapolis in stunned silence, as he appropriately pulled up from near the bullseye logo on the court. Doncic looked fired up as he walked back on defense, and was seen mouthing a seemingly NSFW response.
"That's what I fucking do," Doncic seemingly said.
The late-game highlight moment came with 1:04 left on the game clock, and with the Mavericks leading 114 to 109. Working through a double team, Luka Doncic was forced to pull up from deep and drained the shot in the face of Nickeil Alexander-Walker.
Dudley, a veteran of 14 NBA seasons and currently one of Jason Kidd's lead assistants, hailed Luka's composure and fearlessness in the clutch.
To echo his coach's sentiments, Luka posted an Instagram story of Jared Dudley's story of himself.
The Slovenian superstar wrapped up the game with 24 points on 10 of 27 shooting. Incredibly, this was the only 3-pointer he hit in the entire game, finishing one of nine from three-point range; once again, underscoring his clutch credentials and the ability to come up big when it matters the most.
Luka Doncic explains NSFW response and injury concerns in post game comments
Doncic has had several memorable battles with the Timberwolves, notably in the Western Conference Finals last year. There was no love lost between Luka Doncic and the Wolves fans who vociferously taunted the Western Conference Finals MVP throughout the game.
In the postgame presser, the Slovenian justified his profane response which was aimed at a fan sitting courtside.
"Oh, yeah, I heard a lot—they really like me here. Last year was fun. This place is a big moment in my career and life, so it was great to be back." - Luka Doncic explained
The five-time All-Star also cleared up any injury concerns after a hit from behind by an opposing player left him shaken. However he was able to play the rest of the game without any serious hindrance.
"Yeah, just got a little scared—a lot of injuries happening. I felt a little something, but I was fine pretty soon after." said Doncic
The Mavericks moved to 3-1 after their seven-point win over the Timberwolves on Tuesday. Luka Doncic and co. face their in-state rivals, the Rockets, next on Thursday.