Luka Doncic Joins Shaq as TNT’s Inside The NBA Turns Into Rudy Gobert’s Troll House
The Dallas Mavericks displayed their brilliance once again, securing a thrilling 109-108 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 2. The match saw Luka Doncic, the Mavericks’ star player, enduring the game’s physical toll, yet emerging victorious and animated during the post-game show.
Despite being wrapped in bandages and dealing with numerous injuries, Doncic’s spirits were high. The highlight of the post-game festivities was his playful banter with the TNT Inside the NBA crew, particularly focusing on Rudy Gobert, the Timberwolves’ formidable center and four-time Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY).
During the conversation, Shaquille O’Neal humorously pointed out that Doncic had managed to make a crucial shot over Gobert. Doncic, known for his quick wit, responded with a chuckle, “Yeah, I mean he’s long, but he can’t move. I can’t move fast, but I can move faster than him.” This quip sent the entire crew into a fit of laughter, highlighting Doncic’s sharp sense of humor and ability to lighten the mood, even after an intense game.
Doncic’s humor aside, his gameplay was nothing short of spectacular. His step-back three-pointer, which clinched the game for Dallas, was a testament to his skill and timing. With the clock ticking down, Doncic used a screen to draw Gobert out to the top of the key, executed a precise crossover dribble, and sank the decisive shot with just three seconds remaining. The arena erupted in cheers as Mavericks fans celebrated the nail-biting victory.
While the post-game banter might have seemed like light-hearted fun, there was an underlying tension between Doncic and Gobert, stemming from an incident earlier in the game. In the second quarter, as the Timberwolves held an 18-point lead, Gobert appeared to hit Doncic in the midsection with a closed fist as he made his way up the court. Though Gobert immediately apologized, the action left Doncic visibly irritated.
The incident seemed to fuel Doncic’s performance, culminating in his game-winning shot and subsequent outburst. After sinking the critical three-pointer, Doncic was seen shouting at Gobert, “Motherfer! You can’t fing guard me!” This raw display of emotion underscored the intensity of the competition and Doncic’s determination to prove his prowess on the court.
As the series progresses, the Mavericks are now just two wins away from their first NBA Finals appearance since 2011. Game 3 is set to tip off at 8:00 PM ET at the American Airlines Center, and fans are eagerly anticipating another stellar performance from Doncic and his team.