CJ McCollum delivered again in a defining playoff moment, lifting the Atlanta Hawks to a 109-108 win over the New York Knicks on Thursday, April 23.
McCollum scored 23 points, including a fadeaway jumper with 12.5 seconds left, and explained how the final possession unfolded.
“Yeah, Quin drew up a winner for us,” McCollum said. “We just executed it just how we drew it up.”
The veteran guard pointed to preparation as the difference in late-game execution.
“Those are the things that we work on,” McCollum said. “In practice, after practice, post shoot around and there’s a reason why we’re in the position that we’re in is execution.”
Atlanta needed that precision after surrendering a late lead on a three-point play by Jalen Brunson.
“I would like to not give up a and-1 to Jalen,” McCollum said. “Hell of a move to take the lead, but we dug deep and did what it takes to win these types of games.”
The Hawks secured the win with a final defensive stop, reinforcing McCollum’s emphasis on team defense.
“I think for us it’s just about guarding with five,” McCollum said. “We understand what’s at stake here.”
He acknowledged New York’s production across the lineup, including strong performances from Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns and OG Anunoby.
“Jalen had another good night. Towns was efficient and effective. 17 rebounds he killed us on the boards,” McCollum said. “OG hit timely baskets.”
McCollum stressed that Atlanta’s approach remains focused internally despite opponent adjustments.
“We don’t really worry about the opponent,” McCollum said. “We can’t control that.”
The guard also described the atmosphere at State Farm Arena as a factor in the team’s performance.
“I think this is exactly what I envisioned,” McCollum said. “Being able to play a home game in the playoffs, hostile environment.”
He connected the moment to years of preparation and experience.
“As a kid, you always envision being able to play in big moments,” McCollum said. “All of our guys work really hard.”
McCollum highlighted the group’s collective mindset and accountability.
“When you have guys that live it and love it, I think it’s easy to root for each other,” McCollum said. “It’s easy to be selfless.”
Atlanta also received a boost from Jonathan Kuminga, who scored 21 points off the bench.
“He’s been awesome,” McCollum said. “He’s a pro.”
McCollum detailed Kuminga’s versatility and impact on both ends.
“He understands how to play the game the right way,” McCollum said. “Defensively he can guard one through five.”
The veteran guard addressed his own late-game role after delivering back-to-back clutch performances.
“I’m comfortable with failure and I’m comfortable with success,” McCollum said. “I’ve played for a long time.”
He emphasized consistency in approach regardless of outcome.
“I don’t get too high. I don’t get too low,” McCollum said. “I could have missed those shots and I would have been approaching the game the same way.”
McCollum attributed his confidence to preparation and routine.
“When you do things the right way and when you really work, you just show up,” McCollum said. “Now I’m just showing up.”
Atlanta now leads the series 2-1, with Game 4 set to remain at home.
