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LaMelo Ball · Even without the postseason résumé to prove it, LaMelo Ball’s pattern of big-time performances against upper-echelon teams continues to speak for itself. Crunched for time and in need of a score to force overtime, the Charlotte Hornets’ electric floor general works his magic, matching physicality with grace to free himself for an inbounds pass and then a hanging, two-handed banker in traffic over a pair of respected Boston Celtics defenders. Unbothered by a matchup against a top-five defense, Ball put a stamp on one of the best games of career, helping Charlotte overcome a nine-point deficit with three minutes to go. Playing his role as architect, the All-Star guard put in 36 points, nine rebounds, eight assists, two steals, a block, and five triples in the upset victory on November 20, 2023. · State of Mint