RJ Barrett's game-winning, bounce-aided three-pointer was already one of the most dramatic moments of the NBA playoffs. But a new camera angle reveals just how close it came to being erased from the history books.

In Friday night's thriller, Barrett's shot hit the back rim and launched straight up into the air—so high that it nearly collided with a camera mounted on the shot clock. That overhead camera, rarely a factor in gameplay, suddenly became the center of attention.

The ball came within what looked like a foot of hitting the camera. If it had, the shot would have been ruled out of bounds, even if it had fallen through the net. Imagine the scene: the crowd erupts, the Raptors celebrate forcing a Game 7, and then the referees have to wave it off. Pure chaos.

Fortunately for Toronto, Barrett's bounce measured more than two meters above the hoop—enough to avoid the camera and seal the win. It's a reminder that in the playoffs, every inch matters, and sometimes the difference between a legendary moment and a controversial no-call is just a lucky bounce.

For fans watching at home, it's another reason to appreciate the drama of postseason basketball—and to keep an eye on those cameras.