Tidjane Salaün

Good ‘ol fashioned “David versus Goliath” storylines were certainly in play, as March 7, 2025’s schedule called for the 53-win Cleveland Cavaliers to clash against the 14-win Charlotte Hornets. Fortunately, and fittingly for the Hornets —16.5-point underdogs by the opening tip — stone-cold coolness and accuracy from faraway were embedded into Tidjane Salaün’s list of characteristics. Once describing himself as someone who attacks the NBA’s pressures as if it were a “video game,” Charlotte’s No. 6 pick prepares for a storyline-type moment, sizing up Donovan Mitchell for a late-game, top-of-the-key mano-a-mano with the play clock quickly dwindling. “99 overall,” as they say, on this particular possession, Salaün coolly works himself into a game-tying 28-footer from nearly midcourt, encouraging celebratory shrieks from commentators and fans alike. Charlotte’s “March Madness”-style upset was one point short, but Salaün’s performance became one worth smiling about nevertheless, as he totalled nine points (on three-of-five shooting), six rebounds, three assists, one steal, and three trifectas.

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