Getty Image / Adam Glanzman
Mike Breen has had some incredible calls in his legendary broadcasting career. His catchphrase, the simple “bang”, has entered basketball lexicon all the way down to your local pickup game.
But, despite all of his great calls, he has had few as good as the one he had to end the first half of Game 5 of the NBA Finals between the Boston Celtics and Dallas Mavericks. His call of Celtics guard Payton Pritchard’s half-court heave was absolutely perfect.
First, to set it up, Payton Pritchard has a penchant for making half-court shots, and made one during Game 2. And, when he received a pass at the end of the first half, Mike Breen more-or-less predicted that he would make this one. And, he didn’t need the backboard this time.
Take a listen to this incredible call.
"Here's Pritchard he loves these… puts it up from halfcourt at the buzzer… BANG… HE'S DONE IT AGAIN!" https://t.co/dWXM1HVj4D pic.twitter.com/EtcSju6Gn0
— NBA (@NBA) June 18, 2024
That’s Mike Breen at his absolute best. Twitter was loving it.
"Here is Pritchard. He loves these. Puts it up. Halfcourt at the buzzer."
Dramatic pause as the ball travels in the air.
"BANG! Pritchard with a 3-pointer at the buzzer! He's done it again."
Mike Breen is marvelous.
— Marcus Thompson II (@ThompsonScribe) June 18, 2024
Mike Breen’s elite mention pre Pritchard heave.
“He’s good at these” referencing the previous make game 3 and him being in for that very reason.
Nailed it in the moment and it paid off.
— jordan cornette (@jordancornette) June 18, 2024
Somehow Mike Breen managed to be even better than the Celtics in that half. What a legend.
— Tyriq D. Butler (@TyDButler) June 18, 2024
Pritchard’s shot gave Boston a 67-46 lead as they close in on their 18th NBA Title. But, that play will always be remembered for Mike Breen’s call.