On May 2, 2026, RJ Barrett hit a game-winning 3-pointer in Game 6 of the NBA playoffs against the Cleveland Cavaliers, saving the Toronto Raptors’ season. The dramatic shot gave the Raptors a 112-110 lead with just 1.2 seconds remaining.
Barrett’s remarkable moment echoed Kawhi Leonard’s iconic game-winner from 2019, a highlight that still resonates with Raptors fans. Growing up in nearby Mississauga, Ontario, Barrett idolized the team and its star players—his childhood dreams now realized on the playoff stage.
The Raptors faced dire circumstances before Barrett’s heroics. Trailing late in the game, they needed a win to extend their playoff series. Scottie Barnes had an impressive performance, contributing significantly with 25 points, 14 assists, and 7 rebounds. However, Barrett struggled throughout much of the game—he was only 2-for-12 since halftime before making the decisive shot.
The tension was palpable as Barrett took his shot; it hit the rim twice before finally dropping in—a moment described by Barrett as a “Kawhi bounce.” Darko Rajaković, head coach of the Raptors, remarked on the experience: “I know it was a half of a second, but it (felt) like an eternity over there to be honest with you.”
This victory forced a Game 7 in the playoff series—a critical juncture for both teams. Kenny Atkinson, assistant coach for the Raptors, noted that “sometimes, the basketball gods aren’t with you,” reflecting on how quickly fortunes can change in high-stakes games.
As fans celebrate this thrilling win and draw parallels to past glories, observers are left pondering what lies ahead. RJ Barrett has now made 38 playoff 3-pointers, solidifying his role as a key player for Toronto. The upcoming Game 7 will test their resilience and determination against a determined Cavaliers squad.
