Donte DiVincenzo Shatters Knicks’ 3-Point Record in Spectacular Fashion
ICARO Media Group
In a stunning display of long-range shooting, Donte DiVincenzo made history for the New York Knicks on Monday night, breaking the franchise record for most 3-pointers made in a game. The Knicks guard sank an impressive 11 of 20 shots from beyond the arc during their 124-99 victory over the Detroit Pistons.
DiVincenzo's record-breaking performance was highlighted by his career-high 40-point game. Despite initial doubts about his role with the team, the 27-year-old guard has exceeded expectations and become one of the NBA's most fearsome high-volume bombers.
His record-setting shot came against former Knick Evan Fournier, who previously held the franchise record with 10 3-pointers in a game. DiVincenzo praised Fournier, acknowledging him as a talented player and a great teammate.
The Knicks' present looks promising with DiVincenzo's incredible shooting ability. He has quickly become a player that defenses must closely guard, often drawing double coverage. While his performance against the Pistons may have been aided by their depleted roster, the Knicks haven't had a player capable of attempting 20 3-pointers, let alone making 11 of them, in recent memory.
Teammate Josh Hart marveled at DiVincenzo's shooting prowess, noting that it is extremely challenging to shoot 20 3-pointers in a single game. DiVincenzo now sits third in the NBA this season in 3-point makes, just six behind Luka Dončić in second place, with his former mentor, Steph Curry, leading the way.
But DiVincenzo's record-breaking spree is far from over. He is now only seven 3-pointers away from tying Fournier's single-season record of 241, with 11 games remaining in the season. If DiVincenzo maintains his current shooting average, he will surpass the record by the end of the week.
If he continues at this incredible rate, DiVincenzo has a shot at reaching 271 3-pointers for the season, surpassing Fournier's record by 30 shots. This would place him in the prestigious company of players such as Curry, James Harden, Klay Thompson, Paul George, and Buddy Hield, who have achieved similar feats in the league's history.
What makes DiVincenzo's impact even more remarkable is the team-friendly contract he signed with the Knicks last summer. He is earning significantly less than most first-stringers but is performing at levels far above average starters.
The Knicks have become adept at identifying undervalued players and helping them reach their full potential in New York. This strategy has allowed them to build a competitive roster without sacrificing draft picks or young talent. With players like Jalen Brunson and Isaiah Hartenstein also exceeding expectations on team-friendly contracts, the Knicks have emerged as a force in the Eastern Conference.
Head coach Tom Thibodeau's influence has been instrumental in the success of these players. His approach to every game, treating each one like a playoff contest, has helped shape their development. Thibodeau's backing of Brunson and DiVincenzo, despite occasional shooting slumps, speaks volumes about his belief in their potential.
The Knicks now find themselves in fourth place in the Eastern Conference standings, with a 43-28 record. They not only boast a winning team but also have a solid foundation for the future. With DiVincenzo's record-breaking performances and other emerging talents, the Knicks are a team on the rise.
"Donte has been amazing for us this season," praised Josh Hart. The Knicks' aggressive and talented guard has undoubtedly become a player to watch and a key contributor to the team's success.