Clippers news: Kawhi Leonard's priceless response to game ball question

Clippers superstar Kawhi Leonard took home the game ball after tallying his first career triple-double and had a blunt response to his plans with it.

L.A. Clippers superstar Kawhi Leonard notched his first career triple-double in their thrilling 122-117 victory over the Miami Heat on Friday night. Predictably, Leonard took home the game ball for his achievement.

Asked about what he plans to do with the ball, the two-time Finals MVP gave a classic “Kawhi” response, via Nick Friedell of ESPN:

A Clippers security official stood next to Kawhi with the game ball from tonight in his hands. When asked what he would do with the ball to commemorate his first career triple double — Kawhi responded: "Just take it home. I don't know, I might shoot with it."

— Nick Friedell (@NickFriedell) January 25, 2020

Of course he would. What else would Kawhi do with it?

These frank and straightforward answers have become a staple of Leonard's soundbites to the media. And to be honest, they are pretty funny, even though he clearly isn't even trying to be.

Kawhi Leonard dropped a game-high 33 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists in the come from behind win. He shot 9-of-22 from the field, knocked down four three-pointers and went 11-of-11 from the foul line.

Leonard had a slow start in the first half, scoring just seven points through the first 24 minutes of action. He did, however, pick it up after the intermission and scored 26 points in the second half.

It's kind of absurd to see that this is just Leonard's first-ever triple-double after nine seasons (or eight if you're not counting his 9-game campaign in 2017-18) in the NBA.

In fact, the two-way superstar only notched his first double-digit assist game this season in a loss against the Phoenix Suns. He did get just eight boards in that particular contest.

This achievement is a testament to how the San Diego State standout has developed throughout his NBA career. Initially starting his career out as a lockdown defensive specialist, Leonard has also blossomed into one of the best scorers in the NBA. Now, he is also showing a lot of progress in terms of playmaking and is becoming one of the most complete players in the league today.