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, Zubac’s Historic Streak and Harden’s Leadership: The Clippers Secret Weapons for Postseason Glory, she shouts out the play of Ivica Zubac and his pal, James Harden!
INGLEWOOD, Calif.– —-We’ve got three eggs left in our playoff carton, it’s time to protect them like our postseason lives depend on it—because they do. Sitting in the 4th spot in the West, the Clippers are gearing up for what could be a spicy first-round matchup. Maybe it’s the Denver Nuggets, now without head coach Michael Malone. Maybe it’s someone else. But honestly? It doesn’t matter. The Clippers can beat anybody.
When you’ve got Kawhi Leonard, James Harden, and a Defensive Player of the Year candidate in Ivica Zubac, the table is already set. All we need now is sharp coaching, clean execution, and for everyone to finally stop with the tired “if Kawhi stays healthy” narrative. We’re healthy, we’re here, and we’re ready.
Defensive Dominance
Zubac has been the backbone of the Clippers’ defense this season, anchoring the paint and turning it into a no-fly zone. The numbers speak for themselves: when Zubac is on the floor, the Clippers allow significantly fewer points, and the impact is evident on the bruised egos of opponents who dare to drive to the basket.
Zubac’s Consistency and Reliability
Zubac has been the definition of dependability. Averaging over 12 rebounds per game and missing just two games all season, he’s the guy who shows up every night to do the dirty work. He’s the silent but vital contributor that makes everyone around him better. Clippers fans know the truth: we don’t run without Zu.
Historic Achievements
The Croatian big man has turned heads with his historic streaks. Since March 16, Zubac has recorded 12 consecutive double-doubles, the longest active streak in the NBA. In a remarkable game against Dallas on April 5, he became the first player in NBA history to post 25 points and 10 rebounds without missing a shot or committing a turnover. The guy is having a season to remember.
A Humble Giant
Even with the accolades piling up, Zubac remains grounded. After his dominating performance against the Spurs (24 points, 20 rebounds), he kept it humble: “It means a lot, but I don’t really pay attention to it much. I just wanna play my best, get better, and help the team win.”
Reputation and Media Narrative
At the beginning of the season, Zubac wasn’t a Defensive Player of the Year candidate, but now? He’s earned national praise, with SB Nation naming him their DPOY, citing his elite defensive metrics and the pivotal role he plays in one of the league’s stingiest defenses.
The Zublock Era
Around Staples Arena and the Intuit Dome, Zubac is known as “Zublock,” a nickname that perfectly captures his role as the cornerstone of the Clippers’ defense. From his shot-blocking prowess to his elite rebounding, he’s cemented his place as a key figure on the team
Clippers Secret Weapons – Zubac and Harden: Besties and Ballers
What makes this Clippers squad even more dangerous? The incredible chemistry between Zubac and Harden. These two practically run the floor together warming up side by side, pushing each other to be better, and building a bond that’s undeniable. Zubac even wears Harden’s shoes every game. How dope is that?
Harden brings out the best in Zubac, and we love that for him. The way these two push each other—Harden with his leadership, Zubac with his defensive presence—makes the Clippers a more complete team. The beauty of it is that Harden never needs the credit. He’s always lifting others up, setting them up for success. He’s a selfless star, and it’s making a difference.
The Beard’s Revenge Tour: James Harden vs. His Former Team
And while Zu holds it down in the middle, James Harden has been on a mission. Since March 1, he’s averaged 24.4 points, 9.0 assists, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.35 steals per game. He’s one of just two guards league-wide putting up 20+ points, 8+ assists, and 5+ rebounds.
With 28 points-assists double-doubles this season (5th most in the NBA), Harden’s not just thriving—he’s leading. And now, he gets to do it against the team where he built his Hall of Fame résumé. Harden has done a lot of amazing things for the Houston community, and I know they miss him. But let’s be clear: James Harden belongs in L.A. now. His playmaking, leadership, and poise have been critical in the Clippers’ rise.
The Rockets bring firepower and top-5 defensive numbers, but with Kawhi back, Harden in his bag, and Zubac on a mission, the Clippers are built for a statement win.
The Underdog’s Hero
Zubac is the ultimate underdog—humble, overlooked, and essential to the Clippers’ success. He embodies the gritty, loyal, and hardworking spirit of the team. It’s time for him to get the recognition he deserves as one of the best defenders and bigs in the NBA.
The Final Word
With three games left, the Clippers sit in a four-way tie for the 4th seed at 47-32. The formula is simple: win out, and they control their destiny. A 3-0 finish would likely secure home court for the first round, but anything less could see them slip to the 5th seed or lower. With a strong conference record as a potential tiebreaker, the Clippers have the edge—but they can’t afford to let up. With the team ready and a quiet giant leading the charge, the Clippers are prepared to go all-in for the postseason.
One game at a time.
