The Horry Scale evaluates game-winning buzzer-beaters (GWBB) based on difficulty, game situation, importance, and celebration, assigning an overall grade of 1-5 Robert Horrys, the patron saint of last-second heroics.
On Monday night, Jaden Ivey delivered a crucial moment for the Detroit Pistons, sinking a baseline shot as time expired to secure a thrilling 102-100 victory over the Toronto Raptors. This win represents a significant step in Detroit’s quest to regain competitiveness in the Eastern Conference.
GAME SITUATION: With the score tied at 100-100 and just 22.7 seconds left on the clock, Ivey had the opportunity to control the final play. As the primary playmaker in the absence of Cade Cunningham, he utilized the time wisely, working beyond the three-point line before making his decisive move. While there was no immediate risk of defeat, this moment served as a crucial test for both Ivey and the Pistons.
DIFFICULTY: Ivey demonstrated skill under pressure. After creating a switch against Ochai Agbaji, he drove to his right, skillfully maneuvering to create space. He then executed an awkward, backward-leaning one-handed push shot from just outside the key, showcasing his ability to score in challenging situations.
CELEBRATION: The crowd erupted as Ivey’s shot found the net, reflecting the Pistons fans’ desire for a return to success. His teammates quickly surrounded him under the basket, celebrating the 22-year-old’s game-winning moment as if it were a playoff victory.
GRADE: While the stakes may have seemed low—a November tie between two non-championship contenders—the significance for Detroit was palpable. Ivey’s performance solidified his role as a core player and highlighted the Pistons’ potential as they navigate a competitive Eastern Conference landscape. Overall, this buzzer-beater earns a grade of 3 Horrys.
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