In a matchup that seemed to ignite old rivalries and bring back memories from their college days, Buddy Hield once again showed that he still has Dillon Brooks’ number. The two players, who faced off on the collegiate stage in a high-profile showdown years ago, found themselves at odds again in a heated NBA battle — and Hield didn’t miss a beat.
The history between Hield and Brooks goes way back to their days in college basketball. Hield, the star guard for the Oklahoma Sooners, and Brooks, the tough-as-nails wing for the Oregon Ducks, clashed in a memorable game during the 2016 NCAA Tournament. That game, which saw Oklahoma advance past Oregon, became a defining moment in both players’ careers. Hield, who had an electric performance in that game, displayed the kind of shooting and composure that would eventually make him a lottery pick in the 2016 NBA Draft. Brooks, on the other hand, despite his defensive tenacity, couldn’t quite stop Hield from taking over, and it was a moment that left Brooks with a bitter taste.
Fast forward to their NBA careers, and the two players have gone in different directions. Hield has developed into one of the league’s premier shooters, consistently ranking among the top three-point specialists. His ability to knock down shots from deep, combined with his smooth offensive game, has made him a valuable asset for the Indiana Pacers. Brooks, meanwhile, has continued to build his reputation as one of the NBA’s top defenders and most vocal personalities, known for his intense, physical style of play and his willingness to embrace the role of antagonist.
When these two players face off now, it often feels like a continuation of their college rivalry. In their most recent matchup, Hield once again found a way to get the better of Brooks. Despite Brooks’ tough defense and trash-talking antics, Hield remained unshaken, effortlessly sinking contested threes and hitting timely mid-range jumpers. His cool demeanor under pressure was evident as he repeatedly answered Brooks’ challenges with efficient scoring.
One of the most memorable moments of the game came in the fourth quarter when the Pacers were nursing a slim lead. With Brooks guarding him tightly, Hield calmly stepped back and nailed a three-pointer, much to the frustration of Brooks, who had been talking up a storm the entire game. That bucket seemed to symbolize the ongoing saga between the two, as Hield not only took the shot but delivered it in a way that felt almost poetic, given their history.
While Brooks is known for his defensive prowess and aggressive play, it’s clear that he still struggles to contain Hield’s offensive game. The Pacers’ sharpshooter doesn’t just rely on his outside shot — he’s capable of creating his own offense with an array of moves that keep defenders guessing. Brooks, despite his best efforts, couldn’t quite disrupt Hield’s flow in this matchup, continuing a trend that dates back to their college days.
As the game wound down, the rivalry between Hield and Brooks felt as fresh as ever. The two players shared some words as they walked off the court, but it was Hield who had the last laugh — once again proving that, when it comes to facing Dillon Brooks, he knows exactly what to do to come out on top.
For fans, this ongoing rivalry between Hield and Brooks is one of the more entertaining subplots of the NBA season. It’s a reminder of how college rivalries often spill over into the professional ranks, and how players carry their history with them into every matchup. For Hield, his dominance over Brooks is just another chapter in a long and successful career. As for Brooks, well, it seems like he’s got a little more work to do if he wants to finally get the better of Buddy Hield.
