A Dagger Shot, most commonly called the Late Field Goal, is a term used in Basketball that refers to a game-winning shot made towards the end of a close game.
Stephen Curry
It is often dramatic and shifts the momentum of the play, deflating all hopes of the opposing team winning. The term originates from its dramatic nature which figuratively pierces the dagger through their opponent’s heart to kill their chance of winning the game.
Many players have been doing Dagger Shot, so they can intimidate the opposing team from winning.
The dagger shot needs to be executed aggressively by scoring multiple times in one round to make the opposing team think that they can never raise their hopes of championships.
Characteristics of a Dagger Shot
These shots are often taken in high-pressure situations – usually when there is little time remaining on the clock of a very close game.
Often, the shots are long-ranged jumpers or three-pointers, giving the shooting team a chance to extend their lead by quite a bit.
History
This term was originally called “The Shot,” but Michael Jordan came up with a new idea to shoot a series of baskets, that created a dagger in their opponent’s hearts at that time.
It’s also called “The Dagger” because even fans are mourning for their favorite team’s loss and the score differences, making it almost impossible for the opposing team to fight for the championship.
Players Known for Their Dagger Shots
Impact
A well-timed dagger shot can have a devastating impact on the opposing team and their fans.
It can instantly shift the momentum of the game, deflate the opposing team’s confidence, and send the crowd into a frenzy. The psychological impact of a dagger shot can be just as significant as the points it puts on the scoreboard, as it can demoralize the opposing team and make a comeback seem insurmountable.
In addition to the immediate impact on the game’s outcome, dagger shots can also become defining moments in a player’s career, cementing their legacy as a clutch performer. These shots are often replayed and remembered for years, becoming a part of basketball lore.