The NBA Cup 2024 is heating up, and last night’s showdown at Madison Square Garden between the Atlanta Hawks and the New York Knicks delivered all the drama of a classic rivalry. With key performances from Trae Young and his crew, the Hawks clinched a spot in the semifinals and are gearing up for a Vegas showdown. Here’s the rundown on the action!
First Half: Knicks Dominate
The Knicks came out swinging in the first half, showcasing Jalen Brunson’s calm precision and Karl-Anthony Towns’ versatile skills. Their control of the game set the stage for a charged atmosphere in the Garden, with the crowd roaring in approval.
Second Half: Hawks Take Flight
But then came the second half, where the tables turned drastically. Was it a Knicks collapse, a Hawks masterclass, or a bit of both? Either way, the momentum shifted, and the Hawks seized the moment.
Hawks Punch Their Ticket to Vegas
Three out of the four semifinal slots in the NBA Cup 2024 are now filled! After the Bucks and Thunder claimed their spots with wins over Orlando and Dallas, respectively, the Hawks clinched their chance at glory with a hard-fought win in New York. They’ll soon head to Las Vegas for the Final 4 of this exciting new winter tournament created by the NBA.
Next stop, Vegas 🏆
The Hawks ADVANCE to the #EmiratesNBACup Semifinals! pic.twitter.com/Q1JvycPI4s
— NBA (@NBA) December 12, 2024
Trae Young Shines Under Pressure
Despite taking a tough loss to the Nuggets just days prior, the Hawks bounced back with a vengeance, marking their seventh win in eight games under Coach Quin Snyder. Key players stepped up, especially Trae Young, who relished the jeers from the home crowd. Waiting for the familiar “**ck Trae Young” chants to fill the arena, he flipped the switch and led a dazzling run for the Hawks in the third quarter.
Supporting Cast Makes a Statement
Alongside Young, Jalen Johnson put up impressive numbers, boasting 21 points, 15 rebounds, and 7 assists. De’Andre Hunter, a candidate for the Sixth Man of the Year, dropped 24 points on 8-of-15 shooting, while Dyson Daniels showcased his defensive prowess, sticking tight to Brunson. Even as Zaccharie Risacher struggled to find his shot, the Hawks came together to ensure victory.
Next Challenge: The Bucks Await
With their ticket to Vegas secured, the Hawks are set to face the Milwaukee Bucks for a shot at the championship. Can Trae and the gang continue their momentum, or will they face a formidable challenge from Giannis and company? One thing’s for sure—this winter tournament just got a whole lot more exciting!