The Toronto Raptors scored a big win 115-109 over the Philadelphia 76ers on Thursday, in large part thanks to Fred VanVleet. The 27-year-old combo guard scored 32 points, including the dagger that sealed victory for his side.
| Player of the Game | |
|
EFF
30
|
| Fred VanVleet | |
| Points | 32 |
| Accuracy | 11-22 |
| Rebounds | 6 |
| Assists | 7 |
Right after that play, VanVleet celebrated the upcoming Raptors win busting out the infamous “big balls” dance, which Sam Cassell had first introduced into the NBA.
Per the Athletic, the celebration became Cassell’s patented move when connecting on a dagger or clutch basket, particularly in a hostile road environment, to prove he had the guts to take and make such shots. Though he started it in Milwaukee, the dance rose to prominence in Minnesota during the Timberwolves’ Western Conference semifinals series against the Sacramento Kings.
However, that gesture cost VanVleet $15,000, as the NBA deemed it as obscene. The Raptors star is expected to make $19.7 million in salaries this season.
Toronto were able to snap a three-game losing skid. They return to action on Saturday to face off against the Detroit Pistons at home.
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