The recent game between the New Orleans Pelicans and the Oklahoma City Thunder was undoubtedly one of the most entertaining games of the season. It was a closely fought game until the very end.
With just 2 seconds remaining on the clock, Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander knocked down a three-pointer to tie the game. While it felt like the game was without a doubt heading towards overtime, Devonte’ Graham had other ideas.
The 26-year-old pulled from 61 feet and drained a three-pointer to help the Pelicans win the game. Considering how underwhelming the Pelicans have been playing so far this season, it was a much-needed victory for the franchise.
Apart from helping his team win the game, Graham made NBA history in the game. His 61-foot buzzer-beater is the longest in the history of the NBA! Apart from it, reliable Twitter account ESPN Stats & Info revealed:
“Devonte’ Graham made a 61-footer at the buzzer to win the game. That is the longest game-winning buzzer-beater over the last 25 years This is the first game over the last 25 seasons to feature multiple game-tying or go-ahead shots from 30+ feet inside the 5 seconds of a game.”
Devonte' Graham made a 61-footer at the buzzer to win the game. That is the longest game-winning buzzer-beater over the last 25 years
This is the first game over the last 25 seasons to feature multiple game-tying or go-ahead shots from 30+ feet inside the 5 seconds of a game.
— ESPN Insights (@ESPNInsights) December 16, 2021
What an amazing end to the game and it will certainly be remembered by fans for a long time. On top of that, Graham won’t forget about this game in a hurry.
Despite winning the game, the Pelicans still have the second-worst record in the Western Conference. On top of that, they have lost the third-most games this decision. With a player like Zion Williamson sidelined indefinitely, it is hard to see the Pelicans turning their season around. Regardless, it was a happy moment for the team in an otherwise terrible season.
Speaking of OKC, after this defeat against the Pelicans, the Thunder are currently at the bottom of the barrel in the West. The only thing the Thunder can do is tank and hope for a decent pick in next season’s draft.
After all, it was quite obvious that the franchise would go through a rebuild once the likes of Russell Westbrook and Chris Paul were traded from the franchise.
