What happened: Rhyne Howard converted a spinning fadeaway jumper while falling away from the basket during the ATL-GSV Finals matchup on NBC and Peacock. The tough mid-range bucket came during Game 1 of the league's 30th-season championship series.

Why it matters: Half-court shot creation against set playoff defenses is critical in a series opener, and Howard's tough pull-up scoring throughout the postseason push has carried into the title round. The 2022 draftee enters the series holding 2026 All-Defensive First Team honors as the franchise makes its first Finals appearance since 2013.

What to watch: Game 1 continues on NBC and Peacock to open the 2026 championship series.