Hardell's first bucket didn't rattle Ryan—it sharpened him. Just like he'd told K-Vibe, this was what he wanted: Hardell at his best, not coasting, not cold, but locked in. Ryan lived for this. At ninety percent of peak Westbrook synchronization, there wasn't a matchup in the league he feared. He'd proven that against Lumina, trading blow for blow with Lamar until he dragged the Roarers across the finish line. Tonight would be no different.
The Roarers inbounded, Ryan crossing the arc with the ball, Amin instantly in his grill, arms wide, eyes locked. Ryan signaled for a 1-5 pick-and-roll, calling Malik up for a screen.
Malik's massive frame set a wall, and Ryan exploded off it, one quick step sending him barreling toward the paint. As two Starships forwards closed in, Ryan slipped through their gap like a ghost, his speed untouchable.
