"Me and Kawhi was in awe of him”: NBA icons Kevin Durant and Kawhi Leonard in disbelief over Damian Lillard's half-court shots
Kevin Durant and Kawhi Leonard were in awe of Damian Lillard's performance in the 2024 NBA All-Star Game. KD and Leonard were impressed particularly by Lillard's range, as he made two half-court shots on Sunday night in Indianapolis, Indiana.
In the post-All-Star Game media availability, Durant had nothing but praise for the 2024 Kobe Bryant All-Star Game MVP. He mentioned Lillard's work ethic for making long-distance shots impressive.
"Me and Kawhi was in awe of him shooting from the half-court line like it's a free throw," Durant said.
"That's just strength, power, just muscle memory. Somebody who works extremely hard every day on their craft to be able to do that without flinching. It was just normal, natural motion."
Damian Lillard finished with 39 points, shooting 53.5% from the field and going 11-for-24 from beyond the arc. He scored 22 of his 39 points in the first half, setting the tone for the Eastern Conference's first win in the All-Star Game since 2014.
Kevin Durant, meanwhile, had 18 points, five rebounds, five assists and two steals. Durant was limited to just 24 minutes, as the game was out of reach toward the end of the third quarter.
Kawhi Leonard contributed five points and two rebounds in 10 minutes. He was nursing an adductor injury before the All-Star break, and there were even doubts about his availability.
He has been very healthy for the LA Clippers this season, though, which is a great sight for fans.
Also Read: "Kobe in heaven mad asf" - NBA fans berate 2024 All-Stars for arguably most lethargic game of all-time in record-scoring contest
Damian Lillard booed by Indiana crowd after winning All-Star Game MVP
Damian Lillard was a big winner in the 2024 NBA All-Star Weekend. He won his second consecutive 3-Point Contest on Saturday and took home the Kobe Bryant All-Star Game MVP award for the first time.
However, Indiana fans were not happy aand booed Lillard out of the building after he was named MVP. They probably thought that Tyrese Haliburton deserved to win the award following a great performance on Sunday. Haliburton had 32 points, seven rebounds and six assists.
Another reason why Indiana booed Lillard is his association with the Milwaukee Bucks. The Pacers and Bucks have developed a rivalry this season, with many hoping that it could become a playoff matchup. Indiana faced the Bucks five times this season and won four.
Also Read: "Don't think Jayson Tatum will win an MVP" - Draymond Green reveals harsh truth for 5x NBA All-Star's prospects for individual honor