In a moment that seemed to blur the lines between prediction and prophecy, Jamal Crawford, affectionately dubbed “Nostradamus” after this event, made a call that left basketball fans in awe. During a timeout in the nail-biting game between the Dallas Mavericks and the Minnesota Timberwolves, Crawford, as part of the broadcast crew, was asked to make a prediction for the play. His response was eerily accurate: “It’s going to be in Luka’s hands, he’s going to shoot a step back three… I think he makes it.”
As the game resumed, the stage was set for a dramatic conclusion. With the Timberwolves leading and just seconds left on the clock, Luka Doncic, the Mavericks’ star guard, had the ball. True to Crawford’s prediction, Doncic executed a step-back three-pointer over Rudy Gobert, the Timberwolves’ towering center and four-time Defensive Player of the Year. The shot was perfect, swishing through the net with only 3.1 seconds remaining, giving the Mavericks a one-point lead and, moments later, the victory.
Jamal Crawford really PERFECTLY predicted Luka’s game-winner before it happened
(via @NBAonTNT) pic.twitter.com/gYUzGRm4t6
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) May 25, 2024
This wasn’t just any shot. It was a statement, a testament to Doncic’s skill and composure under pressure. The young All-NBA guard finished the game with a triple-double, amassing 32 points, 10 rebounds, and 13 assists, but it was his final three points that will be etched in the memories of fans for years to come.
As the Mavericks celebrated their 2-0 series lead, the basketball world buzzed not only about Doncic’s heroics but also about Crawford’s uncanny ability to foresee it.
The Mavericks now head into the next games with momentum on their side and the Timberwolves facing an uphill battle. But regardless of the outcome of the series, this game, and the shot that defined it, will be remembered as a showcase of the incredible drama and excitement that basketball can offer.
