Donte DiVincenzo's Game-Winner Elicits Rare Double 'Bang' Call from Mike Breen

In a thrilling Game 2 of the NBA Playoffs first-round series between the New York Knicks and Philadelphia 76ers, Donte DiVincenzo hit a clutch game-winning 3-pointer for the Knicks, securing a 104-101 victory and a 2-0 series lead.

The shot not only sent Madison Square Garden into a frenzy but also prompted a rare double 'Bang' call from veteran NBA commentator Mike Breen.

Breen, known for his iconic 'Bang!' exclamation during exciting NBA moments, revealed that he only uses the double 'Bang' for the most spectacular plays. "This was only the sixth time in my career that I've used the double 'Bang' call," Breen said, highlighting the significance of DiVincenzo's shot. "It was a spectacular play, and the crowd at Madison Square Garden was one of the loudest I've experienced."

The Knicks had built an 8-point lead in the fourth quarter, but the 76ers rallied to take a 5-point lead with just 47.3 seconds remaining. However, in a surprising sequence of events, the Knicks scored 9 unanswered points in the final 27 seconds, including back-to-back 3-pointers by Jalen Brunson and DiVincenzo, to steal the game.

Despite the Knicks' incredible comeback, the game was not without controversy. The NBA later determined that the 76ers' Tyrese Maxey was fouled twice before his turnover that led to DiVincenzo's game-winner. The league also noted that 76ers coach Nick Nurse twice attempted to call timeouts that were not recognized by the officials during the possession.

Why this matters: The Knicks' thrilling victory and DiVincenzo's clutch shot have electrified the fan base and solidified the team's position as a serious contender in the playoffs. The rare double 'Bang' call from Mike Breen underscores the magnitude of the moment and its place in Knicks' playoff lore.

While the 76ers plan to file a grievance regarding the officiating, Maxey offered a mature perspective, emphasizing the need to move on and focus on winning the series. Game 3 will take place at the Wells Fargo Center, with the Knicks looking to extend their advantage and the 76ers determined to get back on track. As the series shifts to Philadelphia, the intensity and drama are sure to reach new heights.

Key Takeaways

• Donte DiVincenzo hit a clutch game-winning 3-pointer for the Knicks in Game 2.
• Mike Breen used his rare double 'Bang' call to describe the spectacular play.
• The Knicks scored 9 unanswered points in the final 27 seconds to steal the game.
• The NBA later determined the 76ers were fouled twice before the game-winning shot.
• The Knicks' victory has electrified their fan base and solidified them as playoff contenders.