Vassell's Mid-Air Three-Pointer Goes Viral in Spurs' Game 2 Victory

Key facts

• Devin Vassell hit a viral mid-air, no-dip three-pointer in Game 2 against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
• The shot occurred on Wednesday during the Spurs' 133-95 win at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio.
• Vassell finished Game 2 with 10 points, five rebounds, and four assists in 22 minutes.
• In Game 1, Vassell recorded 14 points, five rebounds, three assists, one block, and three steals.
• Vassell has averaged 12.8 points, 5.7 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.7 steals, and 1.2 blocks during the 2026 playoffs.
• The play has been compared to a signature move from the anime "Kuroko's Basketball."
• A "no-dip 3" involves shooting a three-pointer immediately after catching the ball, in the same motion.

A Shot That Defied Gravity and Expectation

Devin Vassell has etched his name into recent NBA highlight reels with a spectacular, gravity-defying three-pointer that has captivated fans and ignited discussions across the basketball world. The San Antonio Spurs guard, long recognized as one of the team's premier shooters, executed a mid-air, no-dip three-pointer in Game 2 against the Minnesota Timberwolves. This remarkable play, which occurred as the shot clock wound down, has been lauded for its audacity and effectiveness, drawing comparisons to iconic moments in sports entertainment. The shot itself was a testament to Vassell's skill and quick thinking. With the clock ticking towards zero, teammate Julian Champagnie made a last-ditch pass to Vassell. In a fluid, instantaneous motion, Vassell leaped, caught the ball in mid-air, and released the shot before landing. The ball swished through the net, a moment of brilliance that transcended the typical flow of a basketball game and became an instant viral sensation. This particular play has been likened to a signature move by the character Midorima from the popular anime series "Kuroko's Basketball." The comparison highlights the seemingly impossible nature of Vassell's shot, turning an animated feat into a tangible reality on the NBA court. It underscores how Vassell, a player known for his consistent shooting and all-around game, delivered a moment of pure magic.

Spurs Even Series with Dominant Game 2 Performance

Vassell's highlight play was a standout moment in a crucial Game 2 victory for the San Antonio Spurs. The Spurs decisively beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 133-95 at their home arena, Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Texas. This resounding win served to tie the second-round series at one game apiece, setting the stage for a compelling continuation of the playoff matchup. The game itself was a display of the Spurs' offensive prowess, with Vassell contributing significantly. In just 22 minutes of play, he amassed 10 points, complemented by five rebounds and four assists. This performance followed a solid outing in Game 1, where the Spurs narrowly lost 104-102 to the Timberwolves. In that series opener, Vassell showcased his consistent offensive output, scoring 14 points on 5-of-11 shooting from the field, including a 3-of-6 performance from beyond the arc. He also added five rebounds, three assists, one block, and three steals over 36 minutes, demonstrating his impact on both ends of the court.

Vassell's Steadfast Playoff Contribution

Beyond the viral moment, Devin Vassell has established himself as a vital and dependable player for the San Antonio Spurs throughout the postseason. His role has evolved from being a reliable shooter, particularly from three-point range and mid-range, to a consistent all-around contributor. Across all six playoff games played so far, Vassell has consistently scored in double figures. Furthermore, he has managed to record at least one block in every single one of those contests, underscoring his defensive engagement. This steady performance has become a hallmark of his postseason campaign. His statistical averages for the 2026 playoffs reflect this reliability. Vassell is averaging 12.8 points, 5.7 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.7 steals, and 1.2 blocks per game, playing an average of 34.2 minutes. This consistent production makes him a key component of the Spurs' strategy as they navigate the playoffs.

Defining the 'No-Dip 3' and Vassell's Innovation

The term "no-dip 3" refers to a specific shooting technique that has gained traction in the modern NBA. It describes a player who catches a pass and immediately releases a three-pointer in the same fluid motion, without the traditional "dip" of bringing the ball down before rising to shoot. This technique allows for a quicker release, making it more difficult for defenders to contest the shot. Vassell's execution of this move, however, elevated it to another level. By performing the "no-dip 3" while airborne, he added an extraordinary degree of difficulty and flair. This mid-air adaptation of a popular move demonstrates his unique ability to innovate and execute under pressure. While the "no-dip 3" is designed for speed and efficiency, Vassell's mid-air variation turned it into a spectacle. It’s a play that not only benefits the team by potentially creating open looks but also serves to inspire and entertain, showcasing the evolving artistry of the game.

The Spurs' Postseason Journey and Vassell's Role

Devin Vassell's emergence as a key player is central to the San Antonio Spurs' current playoff narrative. Having been a reliable presence for the team through previous seasons, including periods outside of playoff contention, Vassell has now become integral to their success in the postseason. His ability to consistently hit three-pointers, coupled with his hustle and defensive contributions, makes him a valuable asset. Against teams like the Portland Trail Blazers earlier in the playoffs, he demonstrated proficiency in mid-range shots and open threes. His role against the Timberwolves has remained consistent, highlighting his importance regardless of the opponent. The Spurs' playoff run, marked by close games and significant victories like the one in Game 2, relies heavily on the consistent performance of players like Vassell. His blend of shooting prowess and all-around play provides a stable foundation for the team as they aim to advance.

The bottom line

• Devin Vassell executed a rare mid-air, no-dip three-pointer that went viral.
• The shot occurred during the Spurs' decisive 133-95 Game 2 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves.
• Vassell's play has drawn comparisons to a signature move from the anime "Kuroko's Basketball."
• He has been a consistent scorer and contributor throughout the Spurs' 2026 playoff run.
• Vassell is averaging 12.8 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game this postseason.
• The Spurs evened their series against the Timberwolves at 1-1 with their Game 2 win.