Long before his time had dried in Arizona’s desert and the Charlotte Hornets swooped in to become his career’s fourth team, Jusuf Nurkić found solace in repeating a reassuring phrase: “When one door closes, another one opens.” As the front door opened for his first-ever bucket in purple-and-teal, the 11-year center found time to show some love to a trademark off-the-window shot, as well. Guard-friendly in his approach throughout his career, Nurkić doubles his advantages, racing out in transition with a severely-undersized Cole Anthony attempting to protect the rim. Taking a liking to more creative finishes throughout February 12, 2025’s game, Nurkić balances himself before tossing an over-the-shoulder reverse bucket off the glass. The Orlando Magic eventually discovered the needed footing to survive on their home floor, but Nurkić’s first audition in Charlotte was nevertheless effective, as he chipped in nine points (on three-of-five shooting), alongside an eight-rebound, one-assist, one-steal, one-block addition. · Feb 13, 2025