Tracy McGrady’s Legendary Fourth Quarter Against the Spurs: An Underrated NBA Moment
This is going to be a short blog, but I just want to bring your attention to something that is an underrated moment in NBA history and an incredibly underrated player. This is the time that Tracy McGrady had one of the greatest fourth quarter performances of all time. This guy was an absolute beast.
What’s amazing about this clip is that T-Mac was facing the San Antonio Spurs, a seasoned team, incredibly poised, just an incredible squad coached by an incredible coach, Gregg Popovich, one of the all-time greats. This team made virtually no mistakes at the end. They didn’t turn the ball over excessively; they made free throws. They closed out the game the way they should. The mistakes were minimal here.
I’ve included the long version, which is the best for the drama, though the video seems very grainy through modern eyes. Then I have this terrible one-minute sensationalized ESPN garbage coverage of it. Take your pick. I just wanted to highlight this moment and T-Mac.
What Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan Said About Tracy McGrady: Kobe Bryant once said that Tracy McGrady was the toughest player he ever had to guard, acknowledging McGrady’s blend of size, skill, and athleticism. Michael Jordan also praised McGrady, noting that he had all the tools and talent to be one of the greatest players in the league. Both legends recognized T-Mac's unique abilities and his potential to dominate the game, further cementing his legacy as one of the most gifted players in NBA history.
I DID NOT WRITE THIS BELOW
Tracy McGrady's exclusion from the NBA's 75th Anniversary Team is widely regarded as one of the most significant snubs in the league's history. Known for his extraordinary scoring ability, versatility, and athleticism, McGrady dominated the court during his prime, securing multiple scoring titles and seven All-Star appearances. His ability to single-handedly take over games and deliver unforgettable performances, such as his legendary 13 points in 33 seconds against the Spurs, showcased his unique talent and clutch factor. Despite these remarkable achievements, McGrady's absence from the top 75 list is perplexing to many fans and analysts who believe his impact on the game and his contributions to the sport are more than deserving of recognition among the NBA's greatest players. His omission underscores a broader debate about how the league evaluates and honors its most influential figures.
Long version 7 minutes something: Watch the long version
Garbage ESPN version: Watch the short version