Kathy Drysdale and Dereck Lively (Image Source: Getty Images, X/Dereck Lively II)

While talking to the reporters in the aftermath of the Mavericks’ thumping win over the Celtics, Dereck Lively II disclosed what motivated him, to be specific who helped him to shoot his first 3-pointer in the league on Friday.

Following his impactful performance, the obvious question that popped up at the podium was regarding the rookie’s outstanding shot from the deep. Pointing his finger upwards directing to his late mother, Lively said, “It’s for her, she helped me make it. She helped me make a lot more. She helped me at the free-throw line. She helped me make reads. I’m just happy to have Luka pass me the ball in position. I’m happy to knock it down. Just gotta be able to make the next one.”

Lively had a strong bond with his mother, Kathy Drysdale, who looked after him alone since childhood after his father’s demise. Sadly, Drysdale had to give up her decade-long fight with cancer in April, leaving the 20-year-old alone.

Lively has often spoken about how his mother’s struggle inspires him to push his limits and aim for greater things. On Friday he reached a historical landmark that his mother would be proud of.

Dereck Lively II Joins Lakers Legend in NBA Finals History

Dereck Lively II does not have his name among the best rookies this season. However, he stepped up for the Dallas Mavericks in the crucial stage when he was needed. Not only did he impress the basketball fans who called him out for missing an alley-oop previously, but he also managed to rewrite history with his performance.

Lively got to his rhythm in Game 3 of the NBA Finals series where he dropped a phenomenal double-double of 11 points and 13 rebounds, but he couldn’t help his team win. However, his contribution did not go in vain. The center replicated his performance in Game 4, adding another double-double to the scoreboard and becoming the only rookie to record that since Lakers legend Magic Johnson in 1980.

The 7-foot-1 scored 11 points and grabbed 12 rebounds while maintaining his shooting at 80% from the floor. If he can continue in the same way, the Celtics might have some problem in their hands on Monday.