What if we told you that Blake Griffin’s legacy is even more awe-inspiring than his highlight reels suggest? His 14-year NBA career was defined by explosive athleticism and highlight-reel dunks that etched his name into the annals of basketball history. However, his legacy isn’t restricted to his sporting brilliance.
A recent revelation from one of his former teammates has added a new layer of respect to his story, showcasing an unseen side of the NBA star. As we delve deeper into Griffin’s best dunks, career-defining stats, and the surprising insight shared by his ex-teammate, it becomes clear that his impact on the game goes far beyond the highlight reel.
Blake Griffin’s iconic win at the 2011 Slam Dunk Contest and his three best dunks
If you saw Griffin’s 2011 Slam Dunk Contest win live, you probably still talk about it to this day. Griffin didn’t just dunk; he put on a show. Using a full Kia sedan as a prop, he took off over the hood of the car—not the entire car, but let’s be real, that didn’t matter. The moment was pure theater, complete with a gospel choir singing “I Believe I Can Fly” in the background.
But the highlight reels don’t stop there. Let’s dive into three of Griffin’s most iconic in-game dunks that left us all speechless.
First up, the infamous dunk over 7-foot-1 Timofey Mozgov. Seriously, how often do you see someone jump over a human skyscraper? Griffin didn’t just dunk on Mozgov; he obliterated him. He practically threw the ball into the hoop without even touching the rim.
Then there was the dunk on Kendrick Perkins on January 30, 2012, to be exact. The Clippers were already cruising in the third quarter, but Griffin decided to crank things up a notch. He rose over Perkins, and for a split second, time seemed to freeze. The way he threw it down felt like an exclamation point, not just on the game but on his dominance as a player. Perkins’ reaction said it all—there was nothing he could do but watch it happen.
Finally, let’s talk about the Gallinari dunk. Picture this—Griffin coming at full speed in transition, forcing Gallinari to brace for impact. But instead of just powering through, Griffin added flair—a spin move followed by a tomahawk dunk. It wasn’t just impressive; it was downright artistic.
Now, more than these dunks, what may surprise you is that Griffin never actually practices for these dunks. At least that’s one of his teammates recently revealed.
Jamal Crawford opens up on practice sessions with Griffin
Jamal Crawford recently, on Podcast P, shared insights about playing alongside Griffin, highlighting his incredible skill set and pivotal role during their time with the Clippers. JC recounted their thrilling first-round playoff series against the defending champion Spurs, emphasizing Griffin’s dominance throughout the matchup.
“We went seven games with them. CP [Chris Paul] got hurt and still hit the game-winning shot with a hamstring injury. But Blake was the best player in the series, by far. It wasn’t even close,” Crawford revealed. He praised Griffin’s versatility, which often went unnoticed due to Paul’s legendary status as one of the NBA’s best point guards.
“People saw the dunks, but I saw his passing, his ability to control the game. When CP missed time, Blake became the point forward, running everything through him. Me and JJ [Redick] thrived on the wings because of it.”
Jamal also highlighted Griffin’s unique approach in practice, rarely dunking but showcasing his full arsenal of skills—passing, shooting, and facilitating. “We never seen him dunk in practice. He saved those dunks for the games. It was crazy. I’ve played with a lot of great players in my 20-year career, and Blake is easily on the top shelf. It’s not even close.”
Crawford’s admiration for Griffin cements his legacy as more than just a dunker but a multifaceted star who elevated his team. So let’s have a closer look at other aspects of Griffin’s game than his dunks.
Blake Griffin’s Stats, Records, and Achievements
Griffin’s NBA career has been nothing short of spectacular, spanning 13 seasons filled with memorable moments and impressive achievements. Let’s start with his rookie season in 2010-11. He didn’t just make an entrance, but kicked the door down, winning Rookie of the Year and captivating fans with his high-flying antics.
Over his career, he’s been selected as an All-Star six times (and played in five of those games), consistently showcasing his talent among the league’s best. No wonder his skill set earned him three All-NBA Second Team honors and two All-NBA Third Team nods. Thus proving he wasn’t just a highlight reel, but a game-changer. The fact Griffin has been remarkably consistent with stats is a testament to this.
With career averages of 19.0 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game in the regular season, he’s shown versatility that few power forwards can match. Even in the playoffs, where the stakes are higher, he’s maintained strong numbers with 18.2 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game.
But Griffin’s impact goes beyond stats. He evolved from an athletic marvel into a skilled passer and shooter, constantly adapting his game as he aged. That kind of growth resonates with fans who appreciate players willing to work on their craft. His legacy is one of grit, growth, and unforgettable moments. What do you think about Griffin’s legacy? Tell us in the comment section below!
The post Blake Griffin’s Legacy: Iconic Dunks, Major Accolades, & an Ex-Teammate’s Jaw-Dropping Revelation appeared first on EssentiallySports.
