Not only did J.R. Smith’s blunder at the end of Game 1 cost the Cleveland Cavaliers a likely win, but it delivered us yet more outstanding J.R. meme material. To be fair, there was little explanation for why Smith would dribble the ball out after an offensive rebound with seconds to go in a tie game -- other than, you know, he just forgot the score.
Mistakes happen, although they don’t always happen in Game 1 of the NBA Finals. You could probably guess that the Internet would find inspired ways to have some fun at Smith’s expense, but these guys really went to the next level. Watch the whole thing to see how far (literally) they take the bit:
The lengths we go, right? With the ESPN commentary underneath -- and a Mike Breen chuckle hitting as soon as the video cuts to electronics store -- this video is a perfect exaggeration of Smith burning away the final seconds of regulation. It delivers, also, a phenomenal imitation of LeBron James’ disbelief.
The image of LeBron’s reaction to Smith’s obliviousness has already made the rounds on the Internet, becoming (of course) the first great meme from this year’s NBA Finals.
Most expect the Warriors to be the favourites to win the series, and it isn’t impossible to believe that Smith has blown the Cavs’ best chance at a competitive series. Still, we expect that most followers of the NBA are just grateful to have this moment. J.R. Smith may be down 1-0, but memes are undefeated.
h/t Twitter/SamuelGribbs1
