Blue Devil Country

LeBron James Gushes Over Duke Basketball Product's Clutch Play

Duke basketball's Cam Reddish couldn't be in a better place right now.

Matt Giles

Photo: Candice Ward-USA TODAY Sports
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Former Duke basketball one-and-done Cam Reddish, a lottery pick in 2019, has gone from coaches' doghouses in Atlanta and New York to a starting role alongside Los Angles Lakers legend LeBron James. And as of Saturday night, they're the inaugural NBA In-Season Tournament champions.

Sure, the 24-year-old Reddish isn't a prolific scorer. But as a long-limbed, instinctive, 6-foot-8 wing, he's a uniquely talented defender.

Furthermore, midway through the fourth quarter of the Lakers' trophy-snagging 123-109 victory over the Indiana Pacers in Las Vegas, Reddish displayed his clutch gene from three.

"Not too many people talk about it," James explained to the media afterward about the performance of Reddish, who finished with nine points, five rebounds, and two assists, "but one of the biggest shots of tonight's game was [when] they made their run. They cut it to three, and Cam hits that big-time three in front of our bench to put it up six. And we didn't go back after that.

"So, Cam has just been big time for us. I'm happy to see him thrive under this role for us because he deserves it, for sure."

James added to that sentiment during his chat with NBA insider Chris Haynes.

"People were writing him off," James told Haynes. "I'm so happy he got to experience this and perform. I believe in him."

Cam Reddish's celebration in the locker room drew the following shoutout from the Los Angeles Lakers social media team:

Although the Lakers' lone Duke basketball talent isn't posting any career-high averages this season outside of his 1.4 steals per game, he seems delightfully inspired and more valued in the eyes of his teammates and coaches.

Winning helps with that.

James, Reddish, and the Lakers (14-9) have a few days off before visiting the Dallas Mavericks on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. ET.

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Stay tuned to Blue Devil Country on SI.com for more Duke basketball news.

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Matt Giles
MATT GILES

Matt Giles is the editor and publisher of Duke Blue Devils on SI, North Carolina Tar Heels on SI, and NC State Wolfpack on SI, making him a key source for comprehensive coverage of these storied college basketball programs. Since joining SI in 2022, Matt has been dedicated to providing in-depth analysis, breaking news, and exclusive content on all three teams. He covers everything from game previews and recaps to player profiles and recruiting updates. Matt's expert knowledge of these teams has made his work a go-to resource for fans and followers of Duke, NC State, and UNC. As publisher, he shapes the editorial direction, ensuring that the most relevant and timely information reaches his audience.

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