Ausar Thompson

11 lead changes, 13 ties, and a come-from-behind effort allowed Game One between the Detroit Pistons and New York Knicks to check every box required to qualify as a “rollercoaster ride.” In the event that it didn’t, though, Ausar Thompson came equipped with a few ways to keep the Knicks dizzy, dazed, and disoriented. Entering a series predicted to feature plenty of “grit” and “dirty work,” Thompson leaves his one-of-a-kind athleticism as the prevailing topic, using a blink-of-an-eye spin cycle move to emerge clean and unblemished against the Knicks’ defense. Equally crafty in the finish that follows, Thompson scoops an off-hand layup past Josh Hart and Mikal Bridges, affording Motor City a slight third quarter boost. Even after ultimately falling in a six-game defeat, Thompson’s first-ever postseason cameo was one of many must-sees, with April 19, 2025’s open allowing him to jumpstart the journey through 10 points (on four-of-eight shooting), six rebounds, and one assist.