Bane had occasionally hit shots in crucial moments before, but most of the Grizzlies' clutch baskets were usually made by Morant.
There were only a little over three minutes left, and they were down by seven. Entrusting him with the offense at such a critical moment made him feel a little nervous.
But the head coach shook his head and gave Bane's shoulder a firm pat.
"Bane, you have to believe in yourself. Haven't you always wanted an opportunity? Tonight is your chance to prove yourself."
"You know, if Morant is the only star on our team, the Playoffs will be incredibly difficult for us. If you can step up and take some of the pressure off Morant, things will be much easier for the team."
Hearing this, Bane felt his blood begin to boil.
What player didn't want to be Mr. Clutch?
What player didn't want to make a name for himself in a single game?
What player didn't want a heroic moment of his own?
As a young player, Bane had imagined countless times that he would hit a game-winning shot, become Mr. Clutch for his team, and establish himself as one of its stars.
Now the coach had given him the opportunity. It was up to him to seize it.
So he nodded firmly. "Yes, Coach. Don't worry."
Then the coach turned to Jones beside him.
"Jones, your three-point percentage is 39.6%, higher than that of the vast majority of players in the league. So if you get an open look from three, don't hesitate to take it."
Then the head coach placed a hand on Jones's shoulder and spoke with heartfelt sincerity.
"Jones, you few are all I have to rely on. If we can't win this game, you know I'll become a joke in coaching