Regardless of the game’s setting, scenario, or even opponent, Ausar Thompson’s early-season message to even the most established of offensive stars remained the same: not in his house. An already-perfect personification of the “Motor City” mantra, the Detroit Pistons rookie hustles his way into the help defense fray, levitating through the air to swat away a Phoenix Suns layup attempt as if it were a fly at a barbeque. Though ultimately falling short of a victory on November 5, 2023, Thompson’s first two weeks were historic, with the No. 5 pick constructing a box score line that takes a breath or two to recite. Thompson powered his way into 14 points, nine rebounds, four assists, four blocks, four steals, and two 3-pointers, becoming just NBA history’s third-ever rookie to amass those numbers in a single game. · Nov 5, 2023