The Cleveland Cavaliers had nothing to lose in the final possession vs. the Detroit Pistons.
They failed to hold onto the lead they had for most of the game.
Then, with time about to expire and the score tied at 115, Darius Garland decided to take matters into his own hands – both literally and figuratively.
As a matter of fact, he didn’t even listen to the coaching staff.
Following the win, coach Kenny Atkinson told the media that the team had a play set up for that final sequence.
However, Garland made another decision, which paid off (via Camryn Justice).
#Cavs Kenny Atkinson on Darius Garland's game-winning buzzer beater: "We had a play set up. He disregarded the play and went and made a play."
— Camryn Justice (@camijustice) February 6, 2025
Fortunately, Garland’s shot went in.
Otherwise, Coach Atkinson would’ve been furious.
Then again, that’s what great players do at times.
Garland let the team and the fans down a couple of weeks ago when he missed free throws against the Houston Rockets with the clock winding down.
This was a good way to redeem himself.
The stakes were high, but the team had virtually nothing to lose.
If he missed, they would’ve had to play five more minutes in overtime.
Garland is no Stephen Curry, but he certainly channeled his inner Splash Brother with that heave from almost midcourt.
The Cavs needed an emotional boost after a tough loss to the Boston Celtics in their previous outing.
And while their issues against top-notch teams are still something to be worried about, the fans at least got to celebrate with one of the most epic moments of the season.
NEXT: Fans React To Darius Garland's Game-Winning Shot On Wednesday
