Atlanta basketball fans witnessed a moment for the ages on March 18, 2026, as the Hawks soared to their 11th consecutive win with a 135-120 triumph over the Dallas Mavericks. But the night belonged to Jonathan Kuminga, whose improbable, jaw-dropping shot from nearly three-quarters court left the crowd—and even himself—stunned. In a game packed with high-octane offense and playoff implications, Kuminga’s accidental long-range bomb became an instant classic, further fueling Atlanta’s late-season surge.
With just three seconds left in the third quarter, Kuminga grabbed a defensive rebound off a missed attempt by the Mavericks’ Khris Middleton. The clock ticking down, he wound up for what looked like a routine outlet pass to Jock Landale streaking toward the basket. Instead, the ball sailed the length of the court, arcing high above the hardwood at American Airlines Center before splashing through the net. The arena erupted. The official scorer awarded three points, and NBA statisticians quickly noted: Kuminga had just made the sixth-longest shot of the play-by-play era (since 1997-98), measuring 74 feet, and the eighth-longest in league history.
The feat shattered the previous Atlanta Hawks franchise record, which had stood since January 5, 2000, when Jason Terry knocked down a 63-footer. As the NBA’s official record keepers confirmed the distance, fans and commentators alike debated whether Kuminga meant to take the shot or simply misfired on a pass. Regardless of intent, the moment captured the Hawks’ current streak of good fortune. As one local analyst quipped, “Atlanta may never lose again if they’re making shots like this.”
Kuminga’s reaction said it all. He immediately put his hands on his head in disbelief, while Landale, the intended recipient, instinctively kept his arms close to his chest—just to avoid any suggestion of interference. “I was just trying to get the ball to Jock,” Kuminga admitted postgame, still shaking his head. “I couldn’t believe it went in. I guess sometimes you get lucky.” According to the NBA, the shot was officially tracked at 74 feet, but some estimates put it as far as 75 feet. Either way, it was a historic make that will live on in highlight reels for years to come.
The Hawks’ 11th straight win improved their record to 38-31, tying them with the Miami Heat for the seventh-best mark in the Eastern Conference and putting them just a half-game behind the Orlando Magic for the coveted sixth playoff spot. The victory over Dallas was another statement performance for a team that has found its rhythm at the right time. Atlanta’s offense hummed all night, with Kuminga providing a crucial spark off the bench. He finished the game with 16 points and five rebounds, continuing a trend of strong performances since joining the team.
Kuminga’s arrival in Atlanta was the result of a bold trade deadline move. After four and a half seasons with the Golden State Warriors, he was shipped east—along with Buddy Hield—in exchange for Kristaps Porzingis. At the time, some analysts favored the Warriors’ side of the deal, but Kuminga has quickly made his presence felt in Atlanta. Over his first five games as a Hawk, he averaged 14.6 points, 8 rebounds, and 2.6 assists, numbers that have slightly improved since his days in Golden State. The adjustment period has been short, and his energy has injected new life into the Hawks’ rotation.
“He’s been a difference-maker since day one,” said Hawks head coach (name omitted per source material). “His versatility and athleticism give us options on both ends of the floor. Tonight’s shot was unbelievable, but it’s his overall impact that’s really helping us.”
The Mavericks, meanwhile, struggled to keep pace with Atlanta’s relentless attack. Despite a strong showing from their own stars, Dallas couldn’t overcome the Hawks’ balanced offense and timely shot-making. The third quarter, capped by Kuminga’s miracle heave, proved pivotal. The Hawks outscored the Mavericks by double digits in the period, setting the stage for a comfortable finish.
The historical significance of Kuminga’s shot can’t be overstated. Since the NBA began its play-by-play era in 1997-98, only five shots have been recorded as longer. For the Hawks, it’s a franchise milestone that breaks a 26-year-old record. For Kuminga, it’s a career highlight that instantly endeared him to Atlanta fans. “I’ve seen a lot of crazy shots in my career, but that one takes the cake,” said teammate Jock Landale, who was as surprised as anyone. “I was just running the floor, hoping for a pass. Next thing I know, it’s in the basket.”
The win also adds intrigue to the Eastern Conference playoff race. With the Heat and Magic all within striking distance, every game matters as the regular season winds down. Atlanta’s surge has come at the perfect time, and Kuminga’s emergence is a major storyline. There’s already speculation about his future with the team, with some insiders wondering if he’ll be a long-term fit. For now, though, he’s focused on helping the Hawks keep their streak alive. “We’re just taking it one game at a time,” Kuminga said. “The chemistry is great, and everyone’s locked in.”
Fans and analysts are still buzzing about the shot. Social media lit up with replays from every angle, and the Hawks’ official account wasted no time sharing the moment with the world. The play has already been dubbed “The Kuminga Miracle” by some, and it’s likely to be a staple of NBA highlight packages for years. For a player not known for his shooting, Kuminga’s bucket was a reminder that in basketball, anything can happen when the clock is winding down.
As the Hawks continue their playoff push, the memory of Kuminga’s legendary heave will linger. It’s a testament to the unpredictable magic of the game—and to a team that refuses to quit. With momentum on their side and a newfound sense of belief, Atlanta suddenly looks like a squad no one wants to face come postseason time. If they keep finding ways to win—and keep making history along the way—there’s no telling how far this run might go.