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LaMelo Ball · By early-November, the talk of the town in Buzz City had often centered around LaMelo Ball’s top-of-the-league clutch gene, and how it might be the ingredient needed to encourage Buzz City’s short-lived postseason thoughts. It certainly didn’t catch anyone by surprise, but Charlotte’s All-Star floor general made certain that the Indiana Pacers knew about his brilliance in the opening quarter, as well. Prompt in leaving an impactful, creative mark during November 8, 2024’s first five minutes, Ball leaves both Pascal Siakam and Myles Turner in the rearview mirror, splitting through a crowded pick-and-roll fray before shifting his gaze towards the rim. Innovative, of course, in the layup that follows, Ball uses an acrobatic finish ahead of Ben Sheppard’s contest, smoothly banking a bucket off-glass to bring the crowd to its feet. Lifting Charlotte to just a game below .500, Ball starred in the blowout win, collecting 31 points, seven rebounds, six assists, one steal, one block, and five 3-pointers. · State of Mint