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Al Horford · As he soaked in the atmosphere of the Boston Celtics’ home crowd cheering on the now-completed, historic chase for his first-ever title, Al Horford concluded that the moment — and all of its emotion and elation — was just as he pictured it. Before that picture could be captured, though, the 17-year veteran found that a few more posters would be required first. Called upon to break the ice for the 2024 NBA Finals’ first score, Horford takes his opportunity, punishing Daniel Gafford’s aggressive defense with a convincing pump fake before powering down the right baseline, outhanging Luka Dončić on the way to a powerful, two-handed jam. From lockdown defense in pick-and-roll switches to decisiveness on the offensive end, the five-time All-Star, predictably, left a tangible impact across the hardwood during the Game One victory on June 6, 2024. Horford’s resilience and endurance took center stage as his 186-game postseason saga — the most in league history before winning one’s first championship — finally went rewarded. In playing his part in sending a resounding, series-opening statement, Horford contributed 10 points, seven rebounds, three assists, two blocks, and two 3-pointers. · State of Mint