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Ja Morant · For a player whose athleticism separates him from most of the NBA, Ja Morant sure knows how to work well in a crowd. Too intelligent for any of the Portland Trail Blazers’ double teams and tricks throughout November 25, 2024’s game, Morant redeems himself after a misfired 3-pointer, racing to the rim with enough urgency to prompt multiple black jerseys. Pivoting into a seemingly less harmful back-to-basket stance, Morant conquers the chess match, unleashing a behind-the-back dime that positions his teammate for a pre-game layup line-type finish. In the type of game in which one could tell Morant’s body felt healthy, the Memphis Grizzlies’ All-Star guard — after a 16-day recovery — made plays of every type during the 25-point home win. Morant’s night of celebration would ultimately conclude with 22 points (on 6-of-12 shooting), two rebounds, 11 assists, one block, two 3-pointers, and a +22 plus-minus in just 23 minutes. · State of Mint