Gary Payton II had a terrific NBA playoff game against the Houston Rockets in Game 3. His all-around fantastic play throughout the tournament thrilled his pops, Gary Payton Sr. After struggling in the first two games, Payton II made a remarkable impact on both ends of the floor, contributing significantly to the Golden State Warriors’ victory. His father, the baseball legend, “The Glove” for having the greatest goddamn defensive skills on Earth, was beaming with pride at his son’s success. He even referred to him as “special.”
In the previous three games of the Finals series, Payton II struggled and felt somewhat defeated. He described his performance in Game 2 as “the worst playoff game I’ve ever had in my life.” He may have come into Game 3 with a different mindset and determination, but it didn’t help that he was inexperienced. “I made a point to be myself, settle down, lock in mentally, and cause havoc,” he stated in a post-game interview. It proved to be a lucrative strategy as he poured in 11 of his 16 points in a critical fourth quarter.
The fourth quarter ended up being the most important frame for the Warriors, and it was Payton II’s game-winning impact that delivered it. He hit two huge three-pointers in the stretch. With only 21 seconds remaining in the game, he capped off a spectacular performance by throwing down an impressive reverse dunk to clinch it. He made a strong defensive impact as well, finishing with three steals. He made life difficult for stars like Jalen Green and Fred VanVleet.
Gary Payton Sr. was in attendance for the high-stakes match-up, relaxing in third-row seats directly behind the Warriors’ bench. Through his son’s efforts, and the procurement of four season tickets, this very special occasion was made possible. The elder Payton reflected on his son’s growth as a player, saying, “I like it now because he has his confidence. That’s what he needs. Just needs confidence.”
Additionally, Payton Sr. noted his son’s ability to make “massive plays in the fourth quarter to help us win the game.” It was enough that his presence in the stands fueled his son’s confidence. It freed him up to just savor the game without the burden of having to analyze or criticize every single play. “I was hard on him. Nowadays, I sit back. And I’m very proud of my son because I can just sit back and just be quiet the entire time,” he said.
Payton II has advanced tremendously in his overall game since the 2021-22 season. He really cemented his place with the Warriors during that stretch. His father’s support has played a key role during this process. “When I was growing up, he always used to talk and say something during the game,” said Payton II. Now, he don’t. Now, he just plays the game.
Payton II’s Game 3 performance and resolve offered some promise. He showed his ability to return from adversity and make a big impact on his team’s fortunes. The triumph was a crowning moment that symbolized Prince’s bounce-back ability. More importantly, it highlighted the heartwarming relationship between father and son.
Payton Sr., reflecting on his son’s impact on the game, expressed confidence in Payton II’s future contributions, stating, “He went through everything. He went through the trials and tribulations and he got it.” This welcoming culture has created a privileged space from which Payton II can play freely, without the burden of expectations.
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