CJ McCollum ignites the playoff series, then calmly addresses Madison Square Garden's fervent "welcome." He reveals his motivation beyond fan approval and determination to win the series.
CJ McCollum put on an absolute scoring clinic in Madison Square Garden in games one and two of the Atlanta Hawks-New York Knicks first-round matchup of the NBA playoffs.
With the series tied one game apiece, the series will now shift to State Farm Arena. However, before we move on, CJ McCollum deserves his flowers for putting the Hawks on his back in their 107-106 victory Monday night.
McCollum erupted for 32 points on Monday and scored 26 during Game One of the series as well. Given the raucous MSG crowd, they did everything to try and get under McCollum's skin, which included a "F-- CJ McCollum" chant.
During the day of practice on Wednesday, CJ McCollum was asked about his reception at MSG and how that affects him.
"It's not hostile, it's really not that serious. It's just a game. I don't play for Spike Lee's approval, I don't play for Knicks fans' approval, I don't play for anybody's approval. I play for my family, myself, and God."
After the game on Monday, McCollum was asked if he would want to be referred to as 'a villain, and he responded to that with quite a statement.
"I am no villain, said McCollum. "I'm a nice guy with two kids and a wife. I think it's admiration. Great passionate fans in a really hostile environment. It’s fun. It’s basketball. It’s the playoffs. If anything, I think it's a sign of respect.”
It's clear CJ McCollum is taking the high road on this one, but it has to be good to stick it to Knicks fans, who have felt very confident that this series will be a walkover.
However, after the Hawks stole Game Two at MSG (Thanks to CJ McCollum), now it's Atlanta's turn to prove that they, too, can bring a loud home court environment.