Felicia Enriquez, aka Mynt J, is the host of the podcast BlackLove and Basketball – Compton Edition. She is a Clippers fan, an NBA credentialed creator representing thePeachBasket. In this article she details how the Clippers dominance against the Nets was more than just the outcome of that one game.
The Clippers Are Turning Heads—And the Lakers Might Be Next in Line
Let’s face it: Clippers headlines have been flooding your feed all day, and you’re probably tempted to hit snooze. But don’t. This isn’t just another recap of their historic blowout against the Nets—it’s a deep dive into why the Clippers’ rise is impossible to ignore.
With Kawhi Leonard leading by example, James Harden finding his groove, and a supporting cast that’s stepping up in every way, the Clippers aren’t just playing basketball—they’re building a narrative. And with the much-anticipated Lakers matchup on January 19th, this team is sending a message: they’re not just LA’s other team—they’re here to take the spotlight.
Yes, you’ve already heard about the Clippers’ blowout win over the Nets today but stick with me—this isn’t just about the 126-67 destruction. It’s about how a team once known as LA’s “other” squad is making a compelling case as the most attractive sports team in the city.
The Clippers didn’t just win; they dominated. They held the Nets to a historically low 28.6% shooting, forced 22 turnovers, and turned a competitive first quarter into a second-half clinic. But this wasn’t just a stat-padding night—it was a preview of what this team is becoming.
Kawhi Leonard: The Silent Force
Kawhi Leonard was, as usual, the engine of the Clippers’ success. Dropping 23 points in 24 minutes, Kawhi didn’t need the spotlight; he let his performance speak volumes.
“I work hard every day. I love this game, and I put in my repetition,” Kawhi said postgame. “So, things like this aren’t a surprise for me.”
It’s the perfect summary of Kawhi: unshakable, meticulous, and quietly dominant. His work ethic sets the tone for the entire squad—and the results are showing. He is self-motivated. As he stated in warmups to himself, “Getting better.”
The Supporting Cast Steps Up
This wasn’t a one-man show. What sets the Clippers apart right now is their depth.
- Amir Coffey, often flying under the radar, had another solid outing with 11 points, 5 rebounds, and constant energy on both ends of the floor. Underrated if you want, but the Clippers know exactly what they have in him: a dependable, two-way player who makes things happen.
- Derrick Jones Jr. brought the highlights with four dunks that defied physics. He didn’t just electrify the crowd—he gave the team a spark every time Brooklyn tried to push back.
- Ivica Zubac did dirty work in the paint, grabbing boards, contesting shots, and making life miserable for the Nets’ bigs.
And then there’s James Harden, whose 21-point, 11-assist performance tied it all together. Harden’s growing chemistry with players like Zubac and Jones Jr. is giving the Clippers’ offense an extra dimension.
Even with key rotation player Kevin Porter Jr. out, the Clippers are finding ways to excel.
Clippers Dominance, Second Quarter Blowout: The Turning Point
After an evenly matched first quarter (21-21), the Clippers found another gear in the second. They outscored the Nets 37-14 and turned the game into a blowout. By the third quarter, a 32-3 run made the score so lopsided, the Nets might’ve wondered if they’d accidentally walked into a practice scrimmage.
But this wasn’t just an offensive showcase, it was a defensive masterclass. The Clippers’ ability to force turnovers and contest shots at every level turned the Nets’ offense into a guessing game.
A Culture That’s Clicking
Here’s the thing: it’s not just about basketball with this team. It’s about identity. Moments like Derrick Jones Jr. managing dad’s duties after the game, helping his son navigate an elevator, showing humanity behind the players. Or Even Nico taking the time out to take some photos with fans who were super excited to see him whom I thought were his family.
This isn’t a team full of egos—it’s a group that’s building something real, on and off the court.
What’s Next: Portland Tonight, Lakers Looming
The Clippers face Portland tonight, but everyone’s eyes are on the January 19th matchup against the Lakers. It’s not just about city bragging rights—it’s about proving that the Clippers are here to own the stage.
While their offense has been on fire, it’s their defense that will decide the next stretch. Matchups against elite teams like Oklahoma City and Boston later this month will test whether they can sustain this momentum
James Harden put it best when he said, “The only way to build confidence is to go out there and do it at a high level.”
The Clippers’ Moment
This team isn’t trying to be flashy—they’re trying to win. Between Kawhi’s quiet leadership, Harden’s playmaking, Coffey’s underrated hustle, and the spark from players like Jones Jr. and Zubac, the Clippers have something special brewing.
As the Clippers prepare for their battle against the Lakers, they’re not just fighting for city bragging rights, they’re fighting to show they’re the future of basketball in Los Angeles. With momentum, grit, and unmatched chemistry, this team is carving out an identity that extends far beyond the box score.
So, whether you’re team Clippers or team Lakers, this matchup is one you don’t want to miss. Buckle up—it’s going to be a showdown for the ages. Stay tuned, because the real drama is just getting started.
