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LaMelo Ball · What happens when you give a player with top-of-the-league creativity and ability a fluorescent green on-court light to match? The answer, by many measures, is likely found through the scope of LaMelo Ball’s thrilling 2024-25 season. Already successful in his goal of electrifying the Spectrum Center with rainbow-like floaters and 30-foot stepbacks, Ball, constrained by no limitation, keeps the offensive talent show of sorts going through a pick-and-roll from the midcourt logo. Calm, even amidst a seemingly pressure-packed combination of Wendell Moore Jr.’s bothersome defense and a drained play clock, Ball elevates slightly off of a single leg, ultimately finding bottom on a 31-foot, leaning 3-pointer, prompting a standing ovation for his heroics. Similar to meeting No. 1 against the Detroit Pistons — which featured a game-winner from Ball’s fellow star teammate — the Charlotte Hornets survived for a down-to-the-wire, overtime win on November 21, 2024. The sizzling-hot Ball, with 50-point and 44-point games immediately to follow, was predictably en fuego, capturing the awe of viewers worldwide with 35 points (on 12-of-27 shooting), six rebounds, nine assists, one steal, four 3-pointers, and a +12 plus-minus. · State of Mint · State of Mint