It may already be January 2 for basketball fans in the Philippines, but it was still New Year’s Day for all of the NBA players that suited up and took to the hardwood. After witnessing the great end-of-year games, other NBA stars looked inspired to match that energy.

DeMar DeRozan hits his second-straight game-winner

Speaking of matching energy…

While Zach LaVine was the Bulls’ leading scorer in their game against the Washington Wizards, finishing with 35 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists. However, the hero of the game was once again DeMar DeRozan.

You may remember that he hit a game-winner to sink the Pacers yesterday to close out his 2021, and he did the same thing again in the second night of a back-to-back.

DeRozan has now made history by becoming the first player in NBA history to hit a game-winner two nights in a row. To add icing to the cake, he did it in two different years. That’s going to be a heck of a feather in his cap, as it’s going to be hard for anyone in the future to get an opportunity to end and then start a year by hitting the winning shot.

ICYMI yesterday, here’s the shot he made yesterday.

Giannis Antetokounmpo drops a triple-double

Look, it’s fair to say that the New Orleans Pelicans weren’t exactly the toughest opponent to face, considering that they’re missing Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson.

That doesn’t make a dominant display any less fun, though, especially when it comes from reigning Finals MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. The Greek Freak put on a show for his home fans as he put up 35 points, 16 rebounds and 10 assists while shooting 12 of 18 from the field. He did this in just 32 minutes of game time as well. 

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The starless Clippers steal one in Brooklyn

It looks like the Clippers still have a bit of fighting spirit in them, even while missing their superstar duo of Paul George and Kawhi Leonard. They sure showed that spirit tonight, putting up a 40-29 fourth quarter that helped them walk away with a 120-116 victory against the Brooklyn Nets.

Eric Bledsoe led the way for them with 27 points, while Reggie Jackson and Terence Mann both chipped in 19 points. The tough team effort helped them overcome a big night from James Harden and Kevin Durant, who combined for 62 points, 21 rebounds and 16 assists.

Mann, who was born in Brooklyn, was predictably ecstatic at the result.

The Warriors put in a strong team effort to take a win in Utah

The Golden State Warriors finally managed to pull ahead of the Phoenix Suns by a game in the standings after defeating the Utah Jazz 123-116 in Salt Lake City.

The Dubs, who are at their best when they distribute the load, showed that good team play today. Steph Curry, Andrew Wiggins, and Otto Porter Jr. combined for 73 points – led by Curry’s 28 points, 6 rebounds and 9 assists.

With Klay Thompson’s return looming on the horizon, it’s got to be an exciting time for Warriors fans around the world.