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TOPAnalyst Boldly Claims Lakers Will Become ‘Favorites in the West’ With This 1 Move, but NBA Fans Vehemently Disagree
The Los Angeles Lakers have addressed their frontcourt needs this offseason by signing center Deandre Ayton and forward Jake LaRavia, though they lost veteran Dorian Finney-Smith to the Houston Rockets. While the roster appears more balanced overall, defensive concerns remain. Fox Sports analyst Jason McIntyre proposed that adding veteran shooting guard Bradley Beal—should he be bought out by the Phoenix Suns—would elevate the Lakers to favorites in the Western Conference. McIntyre argued this move would build on LA's 50-win season and enhance their offensive firepower alongside LeBron James and Luka Dončić. However, McIntyre's suggestion faced immediate backlash. On "The Herd with Colin Cowherd," co-panelist Chris Broussard dismissed the idea, and NBA fans overwhelmingly criticized Beal's defensive shortcomings and questioned his competitive drive. Social media reactions highlighted skepticism that adding Beal would resolve the team's defensive liabilities.
Views 5415Likes 1162
TOPNBL Uganda, Next Media Reaffirm Purpose-Driven Partnership
Nile Breweries Limited (NBL Uganda) and Next Media reaffirmed their strategic partnership during a meeting at Next Media Park, aiming to collaboratively produce impactful stories that inspire Uganda’s national development and transformation. The session involved leadership from both organizations reviewing recent joint successes, including the State of Ugandan Sport Symposium, NBS Economic Forum, and extensive coverage of local rugby events. These initiatives were credited with elevating public discourse and enhancing community engagement on key national issues. Representatives from both entities emphasized the critical role of purpose-driven partnerships in shaping national conversations and creating shared value. They highlighted mutual goals centered on uplifting communities, celebrating Ugandan excellence, and amplifying local voices. Next Media’s platforms—including NBS TV, NBS Sport, and AfroMobile—were recognized for effectively amplifying NBL Uganda’s initiatives across traditional and digital media channels, ensuring wide visibility and audience reach. Both organizations expressed enthusiasm for future collaborations to further advance Uganda’s social, economic, and cultural landscape, underscoring a shared commitment to ongoing partnership-driven progress. The meeting concluded with a unified message: purposeful collaboration between media and industry catalyzes tangible national transformation.
Views 3939Likes 2589
Toohey excels during Warriors' opening Summer League fixtures
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Views 4867Likes 3271
“It’s noise”: Harrell refuses to buy into hype
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How Alyssa Thomas is following in Diana Taurasi’s trash-talking footsteps
Alyssa Thomas of the Phoenix Mercury is being compared to her teammate Diana Taurasi as the heir apparent in trash-talking within the WNBA, despite playing different positions, due to their shared intense and ferocious on-court demeanor that gets under opponents' skin. This recognition stems from an anonymous poll conducted by The Athletic and reported by Sabreena Merchant and Ben Pickman, where WNBA players voted Thomas as the league's top trash-talker with 13 votes, significantly ahead of Courtney Williams in second place with 5 votes, Marina Mabrey with 4 votes, and Skylar Diggins-Smith with 2 votes. Anonymous player quotes highlighted Thomas's distinctive and pervasive trash-talking style, describing her as smiling while engaging in "psycho stuff," with one noting her reputation is well-known across the league and another emphasizing she talks trash even to players not directly guarding her, always having "something" to say.
Views 4628Likes 1590
More annoying Bucks discourse could be on its way after Damian Lillard rumor
If Damian Lillard signs with the Boston Celtics, it would mark the second instance of a former Milwaukee Bucks All-Star point guard joining the team, echoing Jrue Holiday's move. This would likely spark renewed criticism of the Bucks' decisions, similar to the misguided discourse following Holiday's departure. The Bucks' trade of Holiday was difficult due to his significant contributions, including an NBA championship. However, the opportunity to acquire Damian Lillard, one of the league's top 75 players, justified the move—a decision many teams would replicate. Criticism of the Holiday trade overlooks key context: while Holiday won a title with Boston, he had a reduced role compared to his responsibilities in Milwaukee. Media and fans also ignore his underwhelming playoff performances for the Bucks in 2022 and 2023, which directly influenced the decision to pursue an upgrade like Lillard. Similarly, condemning the Lillard trade based solely on Holiday's success in Boston is flawed reasoning. Reports indicate a growing disconnect between Lillard and the Bucks even before his Achilles injury, with sources suggesting discussions about his future in Milwaukee were imminent had he stayed healthy. Moving on from Lillard allowed the Bucks to acquire Myles Turner, an ideal long-term replacement for Brook Lopez. The team prioritizes players fully committed to Milwaukee, a quality Turner embodies. Lillard's apparent eagerness for free agency further signals he wasn't a long-term fit. Should Lillard join Boston, it reflects the Celtics' effective recruitment, not a failure by the Bucks. Other teams had opportunities, but context is crucial: if Lillard desired to leave, allowing his departure is logical, even to a conference rival. Despite this, media narratives are expected to be misguided once again.
Views 4348Likes 967
Kennedy Burke’s blossoming offensive game providing Liberty extra firepower
Defenses have begun adjusting to Kennedy Burke's exceptional three-point shooting, a trend she noticed during the Liberty's previous game against the Atlanta Dream on June 29, where she went 1-for-6 from beyond the arc. Burke and head coach Sandy Brondello acknowledged this defensive shift was inevitable given her "off the charts" shooting performance this season. Despite the recent defensive focus, Burke remains a strong contender for Sixth Player of the Year. She leads the WNBA in three-point percentage (48.6%), a significant jump from her 25.9% in 2024. Her attempts have also increased notably, from 1.5 to 3.7 per game, though her total attempts (70) are still fewer than prolific shooters like Atlanta's Rhyne Howard (185) or teammate Sabrina Ionescu (145). To counter defenses taking away her three-point shot, Burke has increasingly relied on attacking the basket off the dribble, utilizing her quick first step. She also leverages her strong defense, exemplified by six steals against Las Vegas, to generate offensive opportunities. This adaptation aims to sustain her breakout season, especially after increased minutes due to Liberty absences in the first half of the year. Burke's preparation for this defensive adjustment began in the offseason with intensive three-point practice (both catch-and-shoot and off-the-dribble) and specific work on driving to the basket. The effectiveness of this work became evident early this season, including a game where she made all four of her three-point attempts. This breakout contrasts with her 2024 season, her first with the Liberty, where she struggled to find a consistent role within the team's rigid rotation.
Views 3681Likes 1853
‘When will it stop?’: Billionaire basketball dust-up goes to email
The National Basketball League (NBL) has chosen a new headquarters owned by billionaire Larry Kestelman, but the selection process has faced sharp criticism. The pitch for Kestelman's property has been denounced as a "contrived" charade, implying the decision lacked authenticity. The article frames this development as a high-stakes dispute among wealthy figures, characterizing the NBL's headquarters selection as one of the decade's most notable "bun fights" in sports. It suggests such intense contention was inevitable given the involvement of competing billionaires.
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Bullets hit bullseye by signing NBL winner
The Brisbane Bullets have signed former NBL MVP and champion Jaylen Adams as their second import for the 2025/26 season, marking a significant acquisition under coach Stu Lash. Adams previously won the NBL championship and MVP award with the Sydney Kings in 2022, praised for his versatility and clutch performances. He returned to the Kings for the past two seasons but couldn't replicate his MVP form with the underachieving team, though he did score 43 points in a game against Adelaide in January. Prior to his NBL career, Adams played 44 NBA games between 2018 and 2021 for the Atlanta Hawks, Portland Trail Blazers, and Milwaukee Bucks. The Kings' offseason signings of Matthew Dellavedova and Kendric Davis signaled Adams' departure. Adams expressed his motivation for joining the Bullets, stating he sees the team building something special and is "hungry to lead from the front, compete every night, and chase another title." He joins Casey Prather, Tyrell Harrison, and Mitch Norton as key components of the Bullets' roster. This signing is considered the biggest yet for coach Lash, who aims to end the Bullets' six-year playoff drought. The Bullets are reportedly still seeking a top-quality back-court partner for Adams and have been linked with Australian NBA player Alex Ducas. Ducas, a rookie who played 21 games for the Oklahoma City Thunder last season (including their championship win, though he didn't feature in the playoffs), attended the same US college as Patty Mills and Jock Landale.
Views 5465Likes 5447
Drake Seemingly Tattoos Over LeBron James Tribute With Ne...
Drake has apparently covered up his tattoo of LeBron James' St. Vincent-St. Mary Fighting Irish high school jersey with a new tattoo honoring basketball player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA). The original tattoo symbolized Drake's fandom for James and their close friendship. A recent close-up photo from Drake's performance at Wireless Festival in London revealed that the Fighting Irish jersey tattoo has been replaced with one depicting SGA's Oklahoma City Thunder jersey. The homage to SGA is logical as he, like Drake, is a Toronto native. Their relationship is evident through SGA's appearance in Drake's "NOKIA" music video and their interactions at games. Drake also publicly acknowledged SGA in June after winning a large bet on the Thunder. The cover-up coincides with a reported rift between Drake and LeBron James, stemming from James attending Kendrick Lamar's "Pop Out" concert. In January, a leaked Drake song titled "Fighting Irish" featured lyrics seemingly criticizing James, calling him fake despite past exchanges of gifts and personal concern. Drake explicitly stated in the song that their once family-like relationship is over, denying they were ever like brothers and accusing James of prioritizing his public image.
Views 3976Likes 1225
CT Sun hope to get back in the win column. How to stream (or watch on TV) the July 13 game
The Connecticut Sun (3-17) aim to recover from their July 11 loss to the Seattle Storm (13-8) when they face the Los Angeles Sparks (6-14) on July 13. Despite leading 16-10 after the first quarter, the Sun lost the July 11 game to the Storm 79-65. Sun center Tina Charles (UConn alum) was the game's leading scorer with 20 points. Fellow UConn alumni Olivia Nelson-Ododa contributed 10 points and Bria Hartley added 7 points for Connecticut. The Sun vs. Sparks game on July 13 will be broadcast live on NBC Sports Boston. It can also be watched on the WNBA's website and streamed via WNBA League Pass. Viewers can watch on Peacock, with the game starting at 6 p.m. ET (3 p.m. PT) at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California.
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The latest, hottest and freshest NBA free agency and trade buzz from the scalding Las Vegas Summer League
NBA reporters are gathering information at the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas. Following Friday night events where both were seeking league intel, the reporter was startled by colleague Marc Stein, who was focused on his phone. The article will focus on the most discussed free agent news currently at the Summer League. It will provide vital updates regarding players Bradley Beal and Chris Paul. Additionally, the report will include numerous other significant items from the reporters' notebooks.
Views 5474Likes 4958
Sharks stun Rams to reach NBL grand final
The Canterbury Rams' reign as National Basketball League (NBL) champions ended after they were defeated 101-82 by the Southland Sharks in the first semifinal at Christchurch's Cowles Stadium. This loss occurred despite the Rams winning back-to-back titles and finishing second in the 2025 regular season. Newly-anointed NBL MVP Josiah Allick led the Rams with a double-double, scoring a team-high 21 points (8/12 FG, 3/4 3pt) and grabbing 15 rebounds, along with three assists in 38 minutes. The Southland Sharks dominated with all five starters scoring in double digits. American imports Caleb Asberry contributed 19 points (9/12 FG), four rebounds, and nine assists, while Keylan Boone added 18 points (7/19 FG, 4/9 3pt), 10 rebounds, and two steals. Tukaha Cooper scored 16 points (6/13 FG, 3/5 3pt) and Sam Timmins had 11 points (5/8 FG), five rebounds, and three blocks. Off the bench, Alonzo Burton scored nine points, and Brayden Inger added seven points, nine rebounds, and three blocks.
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Former Nebraska Basketball Star, Lincoln Native Josiah Allick Claims NBL Most Valuable Player
Josiah Allick, a former Nebraska basketball player, has been named the Most Valuable Player of the New Zealand National Basketball League. The Lincoln, Neb. native earned this honor while playing for the Southland Sharks, becoming the first player in the franchise's history to receive the MVP award. Allick achieved this by averaging 19 points, 11.2 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game, leading the Sharks to the postseason. Allick joined the Southland Sharks in February after working as a graduate assistant for the Nebraska Huskers during the 2024-25 season. He had previously played for Nebraska in the 2023-24 season, contributing 7.3 points and 5.4 rebounds per game, helping the team reach the NCAA Tournament and the Big Ten Tournament semifinals. In the New Zealand league, Allick leads in offensive rebounds and ranks second in defensive rebounds. He also provides a significant offensive contribution, sitting sixth in the league for points scored and free throw percentage. His performance earned him a spot in the NBL's All-Star Five and propelled the fourth-seeded Sharks into the playoffs for the first time since 2019. Before his time at Nebraska, Allick played college basketball at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, helping the Roos to a 19-win season in 2021-22, and then at New Mexico, starting all 34 games as the Lobos finished 22-12 and reached the NIT. He is a 2024 Big Ten Sportsmanship nominee, won the Sam Foltz 27 Hero Leadership Award, and is the brother of Nebraska volleyball player Rebekah Allick. Nebraska coach Fred Hoiberg praised Allick, expressing gratitude for his role in helping the Huskers reach the NCAA Tournament and his leadership impact on the team culture and younger players. Hoiberg highlighted Allick's willingness to contribute in any role asked of him. The Southland Sharks continue their playoff run, facing the Canterbury Rams in a semifinal contest. The winner will advance to play either the Wellington Saints or Tauranga Whai for the National Basketball League Championship.
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Fenerbahce reportedly withdrawing from the race for Vasilije Micic
Vasilije Micic, the Serbian point guard recently acquired by the Milwaukee Bucks in a multi-team trade involving Kevin Durant, has agreed to a contract buyout. Micic returned $6.1 million to the Bucks from his $8.1 million contract for the 2025-26 season, indicating his intention not to remain in the NBA. Consequently, Fenerbahce has withdrawn its contract offer made to Micic one month prior. This follows a report at the beginning of June suggesting the Turkish club and Micic were close to a deal. After waiting over a month, Fenerbahce has exited the pursuit of the player, meaning the former EuroLeague MVP and back-to-back champion with Anadolu Efes will not be returning to Turkey. Micic, who won EuroLeague MVP with Anadolu Efes, entered the NBA in 2023, playing for the Oklahoma City Thunder, Charlotte Hornets, and Phoenix Suns before being traded to Milwaukee.
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Disappointing Lakers Signing Could Still Be Traded in July
The Los Angeles Lakers have made significant roster additions during the 2025 NBA free agency period, including Deandre Ayton, Jake LaRavia, and Adou Thiero. Despite these moves, the team continues exploring upgrades to become championship contenders. With limited salary cap flexibility, trading existing players remains their most viable option for further reinforcements. Veteran guard Gabe Vincent has emerged as the most likely trade candidate before July ends. He has one year remaining on his contract worth $11.5 million. The Lakers initially signed him for backcourt depth after his four seasons with Miami Heat, but his performance has fallen short of expectations. During the 2024-25 season, Vincent averaged only 6.4 points, 1.4 assists, and 1.3 rebounds per game with inefficient shooting splits (.400 FG%, .353 3P%). His offensive metrics (-3.8 box plus/minus) and playoff performance (2.8 PPG on 35.7% shooting) further demonstrated his decline. The Lakers require reliable backup guards to support stars like Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. Management views Vincent's expiring contract as a valuable trade asset, potentially facilitating either a direct player swap or inclusion in a larger deal. Upgrading Vincent's roster spot is considered essential for the team's title aspirations.
Views 3223Likes 3205
Suns 'Comfortable' Keeping Key Big Man Despite Trade Rumors: Report
The Phoenix Suns, seeking major changes after missing the playoffs, have been active this offseason. Key moves include trading Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets for Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the draft rights to Khaman Maluach, and five second-round picks. They also acquired center Mark Williams from the Charlotte Hornets during the 2025 NBA Draft and drafted Rasheer Fleming and Koby Brea. These additions, particularly Williams and Maluach, significantly upgraded the Suns' frontcourt, which was problematic last season. However, this influx of big men has created uncertainty about Nick Richards' role for the upcoming season, leading to reported trade interest from multiple NBA teams. Despite the trade rumors, the Suns are reportedly comfortable keeping Richards. According to a report by Forbes' Evan Sidery, Phoenix views the 27-year-old center on an expiring $5 million contract as valuable insurance. This decision is influenced by concerns about Mark Williams' injury history and rookie Khaman Maluach's inexperience.
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Nuggets Trade Proposal Lands Lakers’ LeBron James and Bronny James
Following Rich Paul's recent remarks, speculation emerged about the Los Angeles Lakers potentially parting ways with LeBron James, though this would likely only occur if James requested a trade. Despite James being 40, his focus remains on winning, and while the Luka Doncic situation impacts the Lakers, James isn't overly concerned. He desires the Lakers to fully commit to contending while he remains on the roster. Bleacher Report proposed a trade scenario where the Denver Nuggets would acquire LeBron James and Bronny James. In return, the Los Angeles Lakers would receive Jamal Murray, DaRon Holmes II, Peyton Watson, and a 2028 first-round pick swap. The rationale suggests LeBron would value teaming with Nikola Jokić, and the Nuggets could absorb the loss of Murray and Watson due to recent additions like Bruce Brown and Tim Hardaway Jr. Trading Holmes is seen as manageable unless Jonas Valančiūnas leaves. The trade represents Denver swapping youth for the 41-year-old James. The Nuggets might prefer this path because Murray is starting a large four-year extension ($207.8 million) and Watson is extension-eligible; acquiring LeBron's expiring contract offers long-term financial flexibility, especially with Christian Braun needing a new deal. While some Nuggets fans may oppose losing Murray, the opportunity to add James, including his off-court value, is significant. However, any trade hinges on James requesting a move or the Lakers making him available. An anonymous scout emphatically dismissed this possibility, stating there is "zero percent chance" the Lakers trade LeBron James, even if he demanded it, calling the idea "silliness." The scout guaranteed James will play for the Lakers next season, fully committed, as it aligns strongly with his best interests both on and off the court. Ultimately, while James seeks to win and the Nuggets arguably offer a better current chance than the Lakers, the scout's assessment strongly indicates James will remain with Los Angeles.
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Canterbury vs Southland – Feeding Frenzy: Sharks Devour Rams
The Southland Sharks defeated the Canterbury Rams with a final score of 101 to 82. For the Canterbury Rams, Max Darling scored 15 points and secured 2 rebounds, while Sean McDonald led the team with 23 points, 3 rebounds, and 7 assists. The Southland Sharks' top performers were Josiah Allick, who recorded a double-double with 21 points and 15 rebounds along with 3 assists, and Caleb Aspberry, who contributed 19 points, 4 rebounds, and 9 assists.
Views 3001Likes 2979
Historic Arrest in Australia After Racial Abuse of NBL Star Montrezl Harrell Marks Major Step Toward Comb
A passionate WWE content writer named Raunak creates engaging narratives that capture the drama, excitement, and heroism of wrestling, fueling fans' imaginations and making matches and storylines unforgettable. Several articles highlight celebrities and fashion: Saniya Iyappan embodies grace and glamour; Natasha Poonawalla makes a powerful statement wearing an iconic Dior dress in a throwback; Manasi Parekh blends grace, glam, and glow; and Bollywood actresses are featured slaying in high heels and showcasing their love for pearls. Inspirational content includes lists of quotes: 7 impactful quotes by Malala Yousafzai to motivate students, 9 quotes for building discipline under "What winners read," and 8 timeless Charlie Chaplin quotes to inspire and motivate students. Lifestyle articles offer practical advice: one suggests 10 precious baby girl names, and another provides gardening tips on creating a lush indoor jungle in 9 easy steps.
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Kyrie Irving Spends Quality Time With Fans After Mavericks' Summer League Win Over Lakers
Kyrie Irving attended the Dallas Mavericks' Summer League opener against the Los Angeles Lakers in Las Vegas despite being sidelined by an ACL injury. He showed support for the team's young players, particularly rookie Cooper Flagg, and engaged with fans post-game by signing autographs and taking photos—a gesture highlighting his commitment to the franchise. The Mavericks won the game 87-85. Irving was joined by veterans P.J. Washington, Naji Marshall, and Max Christie to cheer on the squad. Flagg struggled offensively in his debut, scoring 10 points on 5-for-21 shooting (0-for-5 from three-point range) but contributed six rebounds, four assists, three steals, and a block. Undrafted players Ryan Nembhard (21 points) and Miles Kelly (17 points) led Dallas in scoring. Irving's injury occurred during the playoffs against the Sacramento Kings, ending his 2024-25 season and jeopardizing his availability for 2025-26. Initial team projections suggested a January 2026 return, but Irving recently dismissed that timeline during a livestream, stating, "Don’t hold your breath on that." He emphasized prioritizing full recovery over rushing back, aiming to return "150,000% better" without setting a firm date. The nine-time All-Star's extended absence poses a significant challenge for the Mavericks, increasing pressure on Flagg to develop rapidly as a franchise cornerstone. Irving’s cautious approach reflects lessons learned from past injury comebacks.
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Report: CBA allows NHL teams to place one 19-year-old CHL player in AHL
The new NHL and NHLPA collective bargaining agreement, ratified on Tuesday, includes a provision allowing each NHL team to place one 19-year-old player from the Canadian Hockey League (CHL) into the American Hockey League (AHL) per season. According to reports from insider Frank Seravalli, this new rule specifically excludes 18-year-old players. It is scheduled to take effect starting with the 2026-27 season when the new CBA officially begins. This CHL/AHL placement rule is one of several reported provisions in the agreement. Other anticipated changes include increasing the NHL regular season schedule to 84 games, reducing the maximum contract length by one year, and implementing a playoff salary cap.
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2025 Sal’s NBL Awards Winners Unveiled
Josiah Allick of the Southland Sharks has been named the Most Valuable Player for the 2025 Sal's NBL season, following a standout performance where he averaged 18.9 points, 11.1 rebounds (including a league-leading 4.1 offensive rebounds), and 2.9 assists while shooting 58% from the field. His efforts, including 210 total rebounds, were pivotal in securing the Sharks' fourth-place finish and home court advantage for the Elimination round. The Sal's NBL All-Star Five includes Allick, alongside Wellington Saints guard Nick Marshall (19.9 points, 2.2 assists, 7.4 rebounds), Canterbury Rams playmaker Sean Macdonald (21.5 points, 5.6 assists, 3.6 three-pointers per game at 43% from deep), Taranaki Airs' Carlin Davison (18.8 points, 7.5 rebounds, 5.9 assists, 2.1 steals), and Nelson Giants' Jeremy Combs (24.4 points per game, league-leading, and 9.2 rebounds over 13 games). Aaron Young of the Wellington Saints was awarded the Steve McKean Coach of the Year for guiding the team to the league's best regular season record, emphasizing balanced scoring and defense. This marks his second win in three seasons, having previously been honored with the Auckland Tuatara. Hyrum Harris, a forward for the Wellington Saints, was named Defensive Player of the Year, anchoring the league's top defense with 10.6 rebounds and 1.8 steals per game. His versatility helped the Saints hold opponents to the fewest points per game and a league-low 41% shooting. Jackson Ball of the Hawke’s Bay Hawks received dual honors as Most Improved Player and Youth Player of the Year after a remarkable season where he averaged 19.9 points, 5.3 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 2.3 three-pointers per game. This represented a massive leap from his 2024 averages of 3.4 points, 1 rebound, and 1 assist in limited minutes. In the Rapid League, Hayden Jones of the Nelson Giants was named MVP, averaging 10.8 points and 2.2 assists while contributing to the back-to-back championship team. He was also part of the Rapid League All-Star Five, which includes Kazlo Evans Jr (Wellington Saints, 3.2 assists per game), Tyson Thata-Paese (Manawatū Jets, 14.9 points per game and 2.6 threes), Lachlan Crate (Nelson Giants, 5.8 points, 2.4 rebounds), and Sam Dempster (Nelson Giants, 6.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, 94% free throws).
Views 4675Likes 4653
‘First-ever successful arrest’ in Australian basketball over alleged racial abuse
A man has been charged by Victoria Police for allegedly racially abusing NBL star Montrezl Harrell through social media, according to a statement from Basketball Australia. The arrest occurred last week, with the accused identified as a 37-year-old man from the Melbourne suburb of Huntingdale. Basketball Australia stated that the accused individual is scheduled to appear at the Moorabbin Magistrates' Court on August 15 to face the charges. This development follows Harrell's revelation in October that he had received racially abusive messages sent directly to him via social media.
Views 5843Likes 2442
Warriors should acquire $195 million former All-Star, MIP winner via blockbuster swap
The Golden State Warriors, despite acquiring Jimmy Butler at the previous trade deadline and having made no moves yet in the 2025 offseason, are potentially still seeking another impactful player. With their core of Butler, Stephen Curry, and Draymond Green aging, the team recognizes its limited championship window, and GM Mike Dunleavy could significantly alter their trajectory with a major decision. Recent reports indicate the Warriors might contact the Utah Jazz to pursue a trade for forward Lauri Markkanen, a former All-Star and 2023 Most Improved Player. This opportunity arises due to Utah's recent moves potentially making Markkanen available, presenting a surprising offseason option for Golden State. Analyst G.C. Bellchamber notes that while acquiring Markkanen would be financially complex, he would represent a "game-changing acquisition" for the Warriors. Even after adding Butler, the team's biggest need remains, and their known willingness to spend for another title makes pursuit of Markkanen unsurprising. Markkanen, a 28-year-old, 7-foot sharpshooter from Finland, could elevate the Warriors to true title contenders in the competitive Western Conference. Since joining the Jazz in 2022, he has averaged 23.0 points and 7.7 rebounds per game while shooting 38.0% from three-point range on 8.0 attempts per game over three seasons.
Views 4121Likes 3221
Trae Young ejected for 'making a mockery of the game' after firing the ball at 1 ref, playing keep-away from another
Trae Young was ejected late in the Atlanta Hawks' play-in loss to the Orlando Magic after receiving two quick technical fouls for confrontations with referees. Despite helping the Hawks rally from a 22-point deficit earlier, the game slipped away in the fourth quarter. With the Hawks trailing significantly, Young scored a layup to make it 107-87. Immediately after, he threw the ball at referee James Williams on the baseline, earning his first technical foul. As Williams advanced the dead ball towards referee Pat Fraher for the Magic's technical free throw, Young intercepted the pass and kicked the ball away from Fraher towards the sideline. This action resulted in his second technical foul, triggering an automatic ejection. Following the ejection call, Young continued to delay his exit. He picked up the ball, faked a pass to Fraher, and used a crossover dribble to play keep-away before finally dropping the ball behind him as he walked to the tunnel. Uninterrupted fan video confirmed Young deliberately kicked the ball away from Fraher. Postgame, referee James Williams clarified the reasons for the technical fouls: "Trae Young received his first unsportsmanlike technical foul for throwing the ball at a game official." The second technical was for kicking the ball away.
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Cleveland Cavaliers Sent Major Warning Amid Kevin Love Return Rumors
The Cleveland Cavaliers, restricted as a second apron team, are limited to signing players to veteran minimum deals unless they maneuver under the threshold. This makes them reliant on budget talent acquisitions. A potential option for frontcourt depth has emerged following a three-team trade. This deal sent John Collins to the Los Angeles Clippers, Norman Powell to the Miami Heat, and Kevin Love, Kyle Anderson, plus a 2027 second-round pick to the Utah Jazz. Kevin Love's inclusion in the trade appears primarily to facilitate salary matching, a view reportedly shared by Love himself. Given the Utah Jazz are a young, rebuilding team, NBA insider Jake Fischer suggests Love is an obvious buyout candidate. Should Love be bought out by Utah, a return to the Cleveland Cavaliers is seen as a logical fit. Love won a championship with Cleveland and could provide meaningful backup big minutes, addressing a weakness exposed in the playoffs when the Cavs relied heavily on Dean Wade and Tristan Thompson. However, skepticism exists about a reunion. Hoops Wire's Sam Amico points to Love's reportedly unhappy departure from Cleveland, citing conflicts with former coach J.B. Bickerstaff and president Koby Altman. Amico also questions Love's current on-court value, arguing sentimentality shouldn't drive the decision. Amico's concerns are supported by Love's limited production last season, where he averaged only 5.3 points on 36% shooting in sparse minutes. Positively, he managed over 4 rebounds and nearly 1 assist per game in roughly 10 minutes per outing, while hitting nearly 36% of his three-pointers. This suggests he could still offer limited, impactful contributions for a team like Cleveland needing specific role minutes.
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