What happened: Sam Merrill missed a 24-foot three-point jumper with 4:47 remaining in the first quarter, per an ESPN play-by-play update. The score stood at 15-17 at the time of the attempt. The miss came during an opening frame defined by tight half-court possessions on both ends.

Why it matters: Early perimeter looks are a barometer for how a shooter like Merrill will be deployed the rest of the night, and an early miss can shape rotation minutes and shot selection going forward. With the score this close in the opening quarter, individual possessions carry added weight for momentum and pace. Role-player jumpers like this one are the swing variable when offenses bog down in the half court.

What to watch: Watch whether Merrill continues to get clean catch-and-shoot looks from beyond the arc as the game progresses. His shot diet and minutes load in the second quarter will indicate how the staff is reading his rhythm.