During the Lakers’ matchup against the Raptors, Hayes executed a move reminiscent of Isaiah Rider’s iconic 1994 East Bay Funk Dunk. Maneuvering the ball between his legs before thundering it into the basket, Hayes showcased a timeless feat of skill that left fans in awe. Remarkably, this wasn’t Hayes’ first time executing such a move in organized basketball, underscoring his exceptional athletic abilities. Despite his seven-foot stature and impressive wingspan, Hayes attributed his success to a combination of height, athleticism, and prior experience as a football player.

Following his jaw-dropping dunk, Hayes’ resilience was put to the test when he took a hard fall on the court. However, he quickly reassured teammates and fans of his well-being, citing his background in football as a factor in his durability. Anthony Davis, one of the Lakers’ star players, commended Hayes’ athleticism and expressed excitement over his electrifying performance.

In addition to his highlight-reel dunk, Hayes made significant contributions to the Lakers’ victory, playing 19 minutes and showcasing his versatility with seven points, seven rebounds, and two assists. Coach Darvin Ham entrusted Hayes with valuable playing time, and the young center made the most of every opportunity on the court.