You've seen it plastered across comment sections, reaction videos, and maybe even whispered in hushed tones after a particularly surprising plot twist. "They had us in the first half, not gonna lie." But where did this ubiquitous phrase come from?
The meme's origins trace back to a 2016 NBA game where the Cleveland Cavaliers were trailing the Golden State Warriors. Analyst Kenny Smith, commenting on the game's unexpected turn of events, uttered the now-iconic line. The clip quickly went viral, finding fertile ground in the internet's love for relatable reactions.
What makes "They had us in the first half" so enduring? It's versatile. It captures that feeling of initial deception, followed by an unexpected shift in outcome. From sporting upsets to movie reveals, the phrase perfectly encapsulates the rollercoaster of emotions when our expectations are subverted. So, next time you find yourself completely blindsided, you'll know exactly what to say!
