If you have ever asked yourself why the NBA decided to make the corny phrase “Where Amazing Happens” their treasured slogan, the Celtics-Cavaliers game earlier today should give you an answer. If you hadn’t watched the game, you would think that it was LeBron James, the MVP of the league and basketball’s best player, who had a special or “amazing” game. Paul Pierce or Ray Allen would also come to mind. But, it was neither of these three. It was the Celtics point guard, Rajon Rondo.

The smallest player on the floor recorded an astonishing 29 points, 18 rebounds, and 13 assists in a much-needed victory for Boston. He made all of the big plays in the second half, scoring when needed, creating open shots for his teammates, and securing rebounds on both ends of the floor. The smallest guy on the floor not only notched almost 30 points against arguably the best defensive team in the league, but he also grabbed 18 rebounds! And he dished out 13 assists! The best thing with Rondo is that this performance isn’t “amazing” because it came completely out of nowhere. He is known for his ability to record triple-doubles with high rebound numbers. This performance was just a tad more impressive than usual. Once again, how does 18 rebounds sound for a 6′1 point guard who is not only the smallest on the floor, but also the lightest?

If you are still not convinced by how great this game was for Rajon Rondo, consider this. The Celtics point guard out-rebounded Kevin Garnett, Kendrick Perkins, and Shaquille O’Neal combined 18-17 in Game 4. He had more assists than LeBron James and Mo Williams combined (who had 12 assists in total). Here’s one more. Rajon Rondo, a pass-first point guard who has deferred to the so-called “Big Three” the past three seasons, outscored Paul Pierce and Ray Allen combined (29-27). Oh, and on top of all that, Rondo notched two steals and held Mo Williams, an All-Star point guard, to 13 points off of 33% shooting. Let’s just say that this performance was amazing.

It is amazing that a player small in stature can dominate the game in the paint by rebounding. It is amazing that that player can dominate the game in the three most important ways, by scoring, rebounding, and passing. It is amazing that he can play a near-perfect offensive game and still be effective on defense. And, it is amazing that he can record the best statistical game in the Playoffs of a league featuring the best players in the world. The NBA: “Where Amazing Happens”.