In a thrilling moment during Monday night's game, Atlanta Hawks forward Jalen Johnson made sure everyone remembered his name. With just over two minutes remaining in the second quarter against the Orlando Magic, veteran guard CJ McCollum orchestrated a play that showcased the Hawks' dynamic offense.
McCollum, moving swiftly along the baseline, drew in multiple Orlando defenders. Meanwhile, Johnson made a stealthy cut to the basket, seemingly unnoticed by the Magic. McCollum, with his court vision on full display, delivered a perfect pass to Johnson, who capitalized with a jaw-dropping, uncontested dunk that left the crowd roaring.
Jalen Johnson is cleared for TAKEOFF ✈️pic.twitter.com/Na6SDn1Bu8
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) March 17, 2026
This electrifying play lit up social media, with fans expressing their excitement and admiration. One fan humorously compared the dunk to their childhood Nerf hoop antics, while another praised the team's chemistry and dismissed any talk of tanking. The energy and culture being cultivated in Atlanta are palpable, with many likening Johnson's athletic prowess to legendary performances.
Beyond the highlight reels, the Hawks are proving themselves as a formidable force. Riding a nine-game winning streak and boasting a 36-31 record, they’re currently ninth in the Eastern Conference standings. As the 2026 NBA Playoffs approach, Atlanta is hitting its stride at just the right time, showing that they're more than capable of making a significant impact.