For generations, Greek mythology has warned one about the pitfalls of “flying too close to the sun”; yet, with the athleticism required to offset any plan Phoenix could present, Isaiah Joe, on November 15, 2024, proved himself to be fully prepared. Intentional in his aggressiveness, even with the Oklahoma City Thunder comfortably ahead in the third, Joe sets a plan in motion, first through a decisive, hard right drive to take advantage of Devin Booker’s hard, yet unconvincing closeout. Finding Josh Okogie in prime position to stonewall any at-the-paint finish, Joe — somehow elevating both vertically and horizontally at once — ups his creativity, whirling an underhand reverse over his shoulder for a dazzling and-one bucket. Joe’s score served as an aesthetically-pleasing one in an otherwise gritty, workman-like victory. Joining three others in double-figures by night’s end, Joe contributed 11 points (on four-of-eight shooting), alongside five rebounds, two assists, and two 3-pointers. · Nov 16, 2024