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Posts published in “Basketball”

Damian Lillard takes home the 2023 NBA 3-Point Contest

February 19, 2023
Damian Lillard takes home the 2023 NBA 3-Point Contest

In a contest of accuracy and coordination, Portland Superstar Damian Lillard proves why he is considered as one of the dangerous sniper in the league by taking home the 2023 NBA 3-Point Contest. This was his 3rd appearance in the 3-Point Contest but his first time winning it.

Full highlights of the 2023 NBA 3-Point Contest;

It was a close contest in the final round but Lillard made two “Starry” shots, each is worth and each of those baskets gave him three points in the decisive round, which helped him defeat Hield 26-25. Lillard won the game with his final shot from the corner, a two-point money shot.

Lillard is currently 31% at the 3-pt line this season and will also play in the 2023 NBA All Star Game on Sunday.

Mac McClung wins that 2023 NBA Slam Dunk Contest

February 19, 2023
Mac McClung wins that 2023 NBA Slam Dunk Contest

Mac McClung just became the first NBA G-Leaguers to win the NBA Slam Dunk contest, beating out fellow dunkers, Kenyon Martin Jr. of the Houston Rockets, Trey Murphy III from the New Orleans Pelicans and Jericho Sims of the New York Knicks. If not for the 9 points given by Lisa Leslie, he would have scored a perfect 50 on all rounds of the contest.

His final dunk, is a 360-degree plus (above), were he added a few more degrees in his 360 dunk, then after landing giving a “ITS OVER” sign ala Vince Carter. His final dunk earned him a hug from Dominique Wilkins, a two-time dunk contest winner and one of the judges.

Even though McClung only played in 4 NBA games, the Philadelphia 76ers gave him a 2 way contract for the rest of the season.

Here’s the full highlights of Mac MacClung’s NBA Slam Dunk contest;

Embiid, Markkanen and Morant named as All-Star Starters replacements for the 2023 NBA All-Star Game

February 11, 2023
Embiid, Markkanen and Morant named as All-Star Starters replacements for the 2023 NBA All-Star Game
Image: @NBAAllStar

Here are some good news and bad news, well I guess that will depend on the player you’re rooting for. Good news for fans of Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid, Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen and Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant, since all three All Star will move-up to be starters replacing injured and starters Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (left superior tib/fib sprain), Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (right knee MCL sprain) and New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (strained right hamstring), which is a bad new for the fans of the said injured players.

At the sametime, 3 new All Star Reserves was named by NBA Commissioner Adam Silver as injury replacements for the 2023 NBA All-Star Game namely; Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards, Sacramento Kings guard De’Aaron Fox and Toronto Raptors forward Pascal Siakam.

NBA All-Star Game will be played on Sunday, Feb. 19 at 8:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. MT at Vivint Arena in Salt Lake City.

The NBA All-Star Draft will take place hours before the game where Captains for each team will choose from the player pool to complete their team roster. For this year’s All Star Games Lebron James, of the LA Lakers and Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks are named as the Team Captains.

Below are the complete list of player pool including the Injured/Will Not Play, as well as the replacements;

  • Bam Adebayo (Miami)
  • Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee) – Starter and Team Captain
  • Jaylen Brown (Boston)
  • Stephen Curry (Golden State) – Starter, Injured and will not play
  • DeMar DeRozan (Chicago)
  • Luka DončiΔ‡ (Dallas)
  • Kevin Durant (Phoenix) – Starter, Injured and will not play
  • Anthony Edwards (Minnesota) – Injury Replacement
  • Joel Embiid (Philadelphia) – Starter Replacement
  • De’Aaron Fox (Sacramento) – Injury Replacement
  • Paul George (LA Clippers)
  • Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City)
  • Tyrese Haliburton (Indiana)
  • Jrue Holiday (Milwaukee)
  • Kyrie Irving (Dallas) – Starter
  • Jaren Jackson Jr. (Memphis)
  • LeBron James (L.A. Lakers) – Starter and Team Captain
  • Nikola JokiΔ‡ (Denver) – Starter
  • Damian Lillard (Portland)
  • Lauri Markkanen (Utah) – Starter Replacement
  • Donovan Mitchell (Cleveland) – Starter
  • Ja Morant (Memphis) – Starter Replacement
  • Julius Randle (New York)
  • Domantas Sabonis (Sacramento)
  • Pascal Siakam (Toronto) – Injury Replacement
  • Jayson Tatum (Boston) – Starter
  • Zion Williamson (New Orleans) – Starter, Injured and will not play

Source: NBA

Nets to trade Kevin Durant to the Phoenix Suns

February 9, 2023
Nets to trade Kevin Durant to the Phoenix Suns
Image: @wojespn

In a blockbuster trade, the Brooklyn Nets will ship Superstar Kevin Durant to the Phoenix Suns, this was first reported by ESPN Senior NBA Insider Adrian Wojnarowski. In the trade, Suns will send Mikal Bridges, Cam Johnson, Jae Crowder, four first-round unprotected picks (2023, 2025, 2027 and 2029) and a 2028 pick swap to Brooklyn. The Nets on the otherhand will send Kevin Durant and TJ Warren and the 2028 pick swap to Suns.

New Phoenix Suns majority owner Mat Ishbia pushed to get a deal done on the eve of Thursday’s NBA trade deadline. Durant, 34, still have three years and $153 million left on his contract, originally requested to be traded last Summer but Nets where unable to find any suitors. Last week, this Allstar teammate Kyrie Irving was traded to the Dallas Mavericks, and a clear sign that Durant will be the next star to leave the Brooklyn franchise.

Source: ESPN

Lebron James surpasses Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as NBA All-Time Scoring Leader

February 8, 2023
Lebron James surpasses Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as NBA All-Time Scoring Leader
Image: @nba

Laker’s Lebron James just broke Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s NBA scoring record Tuesday night against the Oklahoma City Thunder. It was a 14-foot fadeaway jumper late in the third quarter, when James scored his 38,388th career points and breaking Abdul-Jabbar’s record that remained unbroken since April 5, 1984.

James ended the game with 38 points, 7 rebs and 3 steals, and a loss to the 11th seed Oklahoma Thunders.

James’ “NBA All-Time Scoring” record another ammo for his fans in the never-ending GOAT debate.

NBA officially announced the 2023 NBA All-Star Reserves

February 4, 2023
NBA officially announced the 2023 NBA All-Star Reserves

After much anticipation, NBA has officially announce the 2023 NBA All-Star reserves. There will be a total of 14 reserves, who will join the player pool for Team LeBron and Team Giannis.

The 2023 NBA All-Star Reserves is headlined by Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers, who can – arguably, be one of the starters.

The 14 reserves were selected by 30 NBA coaches by voting for two guards, three frontcourt players and two players at any position in their respective conferences.

Western Conference

  • Paul George (LA Clippers)
  • Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder)
  • Jaren Jackson Jr. (Memphis Grizzlies)
  • Damian Lillard (Portland Trail Blazers)
  • Lauri Markkanen (Utah Jazz)
  • Ja Morant (Memphis Grizzlies)
  • Domantas Sabonis (Sacramento Kings)

Eastern Conference

  • Bam Adebayo (Miami Heat)
  • Jaylen Brown (Boston Celtics)
  • DeMar DeRozan (Chicago Bulls)
  • Joel Embiid (Philadelphia 76ers)
  • Tyrese Haliburton (Indiana Pacers)
  • Jrue Holiday (Milwaukee Bucks)
  • Julius Randle (New York Knicks)

As reported last month, the NBA All-Star Draft will take place just hours before the actual game. Team Captains, Lebron James and Giannis Antetokounmpo, will select from the pool of players voted as starters and reserves in each conference.

The NBA All-Star Game will happen this 19th Feb. in Salt Lake City, Utah.

These are the 2023 NBA All-Star Starters

January 27, 2023
These are the 2023 NBA All-Star Starters

NBA just announced the 2023 NBA All-Star Starters for the NBA All-Star Game this 19th Feb. in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Lebron James, of the LA Lakers and the leading vote-getter, will be one of the team captain and Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks and Eastern Conference voting leader, will be the team captain of the opposing team. This will be Lebron’s 19th All Star appearance and the 7th for Giannis.

Eastern Conference starters

  • Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks/ Captain)
  • Kevin Durant (Brooklyn Nets)
  • Jayson Tatum (Boston Celtics)
  • Donovan Mitchell (Cleveland Cavaliers)
  • Kyrie Irving (Brooklyn Nets)

Western Conference starters

  • LeBron James (Los Angeles Lakers/ Captain)
  • Nikola Jokic (Denver Nuggets)
  • Zion Williamson (New Orleans Pelicans)
  • Stephen Curry (Golden State Warriors)
  • Luka Doncic (Dallas Mavericks)

Giannis and James will both choose the players for their respective team on the night of the game, a twist that the NBA announced last Wednesday and it is similar on how you play basketball in parks and pickup games.

The Starters β€” three frontcourt players and two guards from each conference β€” are chosen based on a combination of three different votes: fan balloting counted for 50%, media balloting was worth 25% and voting by the NBA’s players made up the final 25%.

Source: NBA

Golden State Warriors survives Memphis Grizzlies even after Curry ejection (122 – 120)

January 26, 2023
Golden State Warriors survives Memphis Grizzlies even after Curry ejection (122 – 120)

Golden State Warriors survived the Memphis Grizzlies even after Steph Curry ejection for throwing his mouth piece with 1:14 remaining in the game. Steph appeared to be frustrated after Jordan Poole missing a 30-footer with more than 10 seconds left in the shot clock. Jordan Poole did made it up for making the winning shot with 2.6 seconds left in the game.

It was a thrilling game between the rivals that could potentially meet in the 1st round of the Playoffs. Aside from their starters, Warriors received a lot of help their young guns most notably Jonathan Kuminga who contributed 13-pts, 2 rebounds, 4 assists and 1 block.

Warriors next game with be against Toronto Raptors at home, while the Memphis Grizzlies will be on the road against Minnesota Timberwolves.

Source: NBA

NBA All-Star Draft will take place on game night

January 25, 2023
NBA All-Star Draft will take place on game night

The NBA All-Star Game is Feb. 19, and the official roster for each team will be unknow until the game day itself.

The league announced the format change Tuesday night: The teams will be chosen by captains β€” probably LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers and either Milwaukee’s Giannis Antetokounmpo or Brooklyn’s Kevin Durant β€” in a live televised segment shortly before the game begins in Salt Lake City, Utah.

This will be the sixth time that captains choose their teams, but in each of the first five instances they were selected several days before the game. Team captains and starters will be announced on Thursday.

The top three frontcourt players and top two guards in each conference will be chosen as starters; leading overall vote-getters from each conference serve as captains and choose their team roster. Fan voting counts for 50% of the starters balloting; 25% for media ballots and 25% NBA players.

Reserves will be chosen by NBA coaches, seven players from each conference, will be announce Feb. 2.

De La Salle University signs Topex Robinson as the new Head Coach of the Green Archers

January 19, 2023
De La Salle University signs Topex Robinson as the new Head Coach of the Green Archers

De La Salle University (DLSU) just announced that Topex Robinson is the new Head Coach of the De La Salle University Green Archers, replacing long time head coach Derrick Pumaren.

Here’s the full text of the announcement;


Here are some of the career highlights of “Topex” Robinson both as a player and as a coach;

As head coach;
– 2Γ— PCCL Champion (2011, 2017)
– PBA D-League champion (2018 Aspirant’s Cup)

As assistant coach;
– PBA champion (2013 Commissioner’s)

As player;
– 2x PBA champion (2005–06 Fiesta with Redbull, 2010 Fiesta with Alaska)
– PBA All-Defensive Team with Red Bull Barako(2006)

Dallas Mavericks unveil Dirk Nowitzki statue before their Christmas game against the Lakers

December 26, 2022
Dallas Mavericks unveil Dirk Nowitzki statue before their Christmas game against the Lakers

Before their games against the LA Laker, Dallas Mavericks unveil the 24-foot statue Dirk Nowitzki in his signature one-leg fadeaway. Nowitzki is the only NBA player to spend all 21 seasons with the same franchise. Aside from his statue, a street have been named after him, the Nowitzki Way and his jersey number 41 was retired, which can now be see up in the rafters.

In an article on Mavs.com, the Mavericks star shared;

β€œI’m so glad it’s finally here and we got to see it,” Nowitzki said. β€œIt was emotional when the thing went up. I felt like the sun was just perfect today that it’s shining right on it.

β€œI’m so happy that my family is here to witness it (and) my parents are alive to see it. So it was a very, very cool day and I enjoyed it.”

In his 21 years with the Dallas Mavericks, Dirk Nowitzki became its all time leader in scoring (31,560) and rebounds (11,489) and blocks (1281). He also lead the franchise to their first championship (2011) against the Miami Heat, lead by a prime Lebron, Bosh and Wade.

Source: mavs.com

Ja Morant unveils his signature shoes with Nike the β€œNike Ja 1”

December 26, 2022
Ja Morant unveils his signature shoes with Nike the β€œNike Ja 1”

Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant just unveil his long awaited signature shoes, the Nike Ja 1. This announcement will make Morant the 23rd player in NBA history to receive his own signature sneaker with Nike.

Morant wore his new shoes during their game against the Golden State Warriors but prior to that, he did an unboxing video which he posted on his twitter account. The Nike Ja 1 will be available globally by April 2023 and no price have been announced as of this posting.

NBA unveil redesigned individual awards trophies and named after NBA Legends

December 14, 2022
NBA unveil redesigned individual awards trophies and named after NBA Legends
Image from NBA: The Michael Jordan Trophy to be Awarded to the Kia NBA Most Valuable Player

NBA will rename its 6 annual regular-season individual awards after NBA Legends with redesigned trophies. The awards will be presented to the end-of-season Kia Performance Award winners.

The league made the announcement Tuesday, headlined by The Michael Jordan Trophy, which will be awarded to the NBA Most Valuable Player. Michael Jordan, considered the Greatest Of All Time, is a 5-time MVP during his 15 year, only Kareem Abdul-Jabbar have won more MVP trophies. Michael Jordan also earned six NBA championships, six NBA Finals MVP Awards, 11 All-NBA Team selections, 14 NBA All-Star selections, three NBA All-Star Game MVP Awards, 10 scoring titles, an NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award, an NBA Rookie of the Year Award and selections to the NBA’s 50th and 75th Anniversary Teams.

NBA’s Clutch Player of the Year will received The Jerry West Trophy, the award will honor the NBA player who best comes through for his teammates in the clutch. The Jerry West Trophy is aptly named, since West’s nicknamed β€œMr. Clutch” for his extraordinary shooting during clutch time.

The Hakeem Olajuwon Trophy will be given to the Defensive Player of the Year. Hakeem Olajuwon is NBA’s all-time leader in blocked shots and ranks ninth in steals, he is a two-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year and nine-time NBA All-Defensive Team selection. Add this to his 2x NBA champion, 12x NBA All-Star appearance, league MVP, 2x NBA Finals MVP, 12x All-NBA Team selection. Olajuwon is also a member of the NBA’s 50th and 75th Anniversary Teams.

β€œI am honored to have the opportunity to celebrate the league’s best defensive player each year,” said Olajuwon. β€œGreat basketball teams are defined by their ability to defend, with every great team connected by an elite defensive anchor.”

The Wilt Chamberlain Trophy will be awarded to the Rookie of the Year. Wilt Chamberlain considered as one of the greatest player in NBA history and it started in his rookie years. Wilt Chamberlain averaged 37.6 points and 27.0 rebounds in 46.4 minutes per game in his first year with the Philadelphia Warriors, taking home both the Rookie of the Year and MVP awards. His career highlights include two NBA championships, 13 NBA All-Star selections, four league MVPs, 10 All-NBA Team selections, an NBA Finals MVP and inclusion on the league’s 35th, 50th and 75th Anniversary Teams.

The Sixth Man of the Year will receive The John Havlicek Trophy. You need to have an old school NBA fan to know John Havlicek, he came off the bench for the first seven seasons of his career and during that time, we was a 4x All-Star in four of those seasons. He won eight NBA championships, 13 NBA All-Star selections, 11 All-NBA Team selections, an NBA Finals MVP, 8x NBA All-Defensive Team selections. John Havlicek is included in the league’s 35th, 50th and 75th Anniversary Teams.

The George Mikan Trophy will be awarded to the league’s Most Improved Player of the Year. Mikan is a 5x NBA champion in seven seasons, four NBA All-Star selections, an NBA All-Star Game MVP, six selections to the All-NBA Team and inclusion on the NBA’s 25th, 35th, 50th and 75th Anniversary Teams.

This is not the first time that the NBA named their awards to former players, during the 2021 – 2022 NBA season, the Social Justice Champion Award will received the Kareem Abdul-Jabbar trophy; NBA Western and Eastern Conference Finals Most Valuable Players will received the Magic Johnson and the Larry Bird trophy, respectively; the Kobe Kobe Bryant trophy will be awarded to the All-Star Game MVP.

Gilas defeats Saudi Arabia to close the Window 5 of 2023 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifier (63 – 76)

November 13, 2022
Gilas defeats Saudi Arabia to close the Window 5 of 2023 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifier (63 – 76)

Gilas Pilipinas will remain undefeated as they beat Saudi Arabia in the Window 5 of the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifier 2023. The game was held at the King Abdullah Sports City, in Jeddah, even though it’s the home court of Saudi Arabian team, the crowd was predominantly composed of OFW, which felt more like a home for the Filipino cagers.

It a close game at the start, where both teams came out firing in all cylinders, it was a tie game (16-16) by the end of the first quarter. Gilas Pilipinas started to pickup steam in the 2nd quarter, where they scored a game high of 25 points, and ended the first half holding on to a 6 point lead.

It’s in the 3rd qtr when the Gilas started to separate themselves with the help of Roger Pogoy who contributed 13 pts on a 5 to 12 shooting. But it was Kai Sotto to made the most contribution chipping in 11 points, a game high 9 rebounds and 5 blocks, with 2 assists, 1 steal on a 23 player efficiency (EFF).

In the 4th quarters, the Saudi tried to make one last push but with the leadership and timely hustle plays of Scottie Thompsons with 9 pts, 3 assists, 9 rebs and 2 steals on a 18 eff, Gilas made sure that it will a night to remember for all the OFW in the arena.

Saudi Arabia vs πŸ‡΅πŸ‡­ Philippines | Basketball Highlights

Here are the scores;

By Quarters: 16-16, 31-25, 55-45, 76-63.

Philippines 76 – D. Ramos 13, R. Pogoy 13, K. Sotto 11, C. Perez 10, S. Thompson 9, B. Parks 8, J. Aguilar 6, A. Kouame 5, J. Malonzo 1, C. Oftana 0, P. Erram 0, K. Quiambao 0.

Saudi Arabia 63 – Ma. Almarwani 19, Abdel Gabar 16, Mo. Almarwani 8, M. Kadi 6, H. Aljohar 5, A. Ashoor 4, Ali Shubayli 2, T. Mohammed 2, F. Belal 1, M. Saleh 0, A. Almuwallad 0, O. Albargawi 0.

Image: FIBA

Golden State Warriors unveils Women’s suffrage-themed new City Edition Jersey

November 12, 2022
Golden State Warriors unveils Women’s suffrage-themed new City Edition Jersey

To commemorate “Women’s Empowerment Month,” Golden State Warriors unveil their Women’s suffrage-themed new City Edition Jersey. The new City Edition Jersey was designed by Allison Hueman, an Oakland-based artist and muralist, she already collaborated with Stephen Curry’s on a sneaker line – Curry Flow 8s thru his β€œFeel Good Flow” project.

Together with the launching of new City Edition Jersey, the Golden State Warriors and Rakuten will be donating $25,000 to the Women’s Sports Foundation. Warriors’ new City Edition Jersey is available at https://shop.warriors.com/ for $149.99.

Watch Golden State Warriors’ NBA Championship 2021-22 Ring Ceremony πŸ’

October 19, 2022
Watch Golden State Warriors’ NBA Championship 2021-22 Ring Ceremony πŸ’
Image: @Warriors

The ceremony started with the team owners and GM talking about the organization in general and them Klay Thompson introduced Steph Curry who appears to be surprised by Thompson’s move before a video montage played on the big screen.

GSW first championship banner for Chase Center and I’m sure will not be the last under Steph Curry era.

Watch: Official Trailer of HBO’s 38 At The Garden

October 3, 2022
Watch: Official Trailer of HBO’s 38 At The Garden

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JSU2j8FJi_M

38 At The Garden chronicles the extraordinary ascendance of point guard Jeremy Lin during his landmark 2012 season with the New York Knicks. Lin, an undrafted Harvard graduate, shocked fans, stunned his teammates and galvanized Asians around the world when he scored 38 points at Madison Square Garden against the Los Angeles Lakers, solidifying Lin’s hot streak and the β€œLinsanity” craze.

A decade later, Lin’s stature as a groundbreaking, cultural icon stands in stark relief to the recent hate crimes against the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community. 38 At The Garden recognizes a pivotal moment in time for Lin and celebrates a phenomenon that was bigger than basketball for the world.

The HBO Original documentary short premieres Tuesday, October 11 on HBO and will be available to stream on HBO Max.

Michael Jordan’s ‘Last Dance’ jersey from 1998 NBA Finals fetch for $10.1 million at auction house Sotheby’

September 17, 2022
Michael Jordan’s ‘Last Dance’ jersey from 1998 NBA Finals fetch for $10.1 million at auction house Sotheby’

The jersey worn by Michael Jordan in Game 1 of the 1998 NBA Finals has sold for $10.091 million with auction house Sotheby’s. The 1998 NBA season have been dubbed as the “Last Dance” season for Jordan that ended with the Chicago Bulls capturing their 6th championship over the Utah Jazz.

The $10.091 million price tag is the most ever paid for an item of sports memorabilia, surpassing the $9.28 million paid in May for late soccer legend Diego Maradona’s “Hand of God” jersey from the 1986 World Cup.

Kobe Bryant’s jersey during his 1996-97 rookie season was the previous holder for the most expensive NBA (jersey) memorabilia, paid in May 2021 for $3.69 million.

Source: ESPN

Gilas Pilipinas routs Saudi Arabia in the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers (84 – 46)

August 29, 2022
Gilas Pilipinas routs Saudi Arabia in the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers (84 – 46)
Image: FIBA

Gilas Pilipinas crushed the Saudi Arabia in the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers held in Mall of Asia Arena, this Monday, August 29. After falling behind the Saudis in the first quarter 14-11, the Gilas Pilipinas lead by NBA Sixth Man of the Year Jordan Clarkson and Dwight Ramos, scored 23 points in the second qtr. while holding the Saudis to just 17 second quarter points.

Jordan Clarkson finished with a game high 23 points, 6 assists, and 5 rebounds, while Kai Sotto contributed 16 points, 13 rebounds, and 4 blocks.

Here are some highlights of the game;

Philippines currently stands at 3-3, while Saudi Arabia is at 1 – 5, for the FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers.

The Scores
Philippines 84 – Clarkson 23, Sotto 16, Ramos 9, Aguilar 8, K. Ravena 8, Parks 6, Oftana 6, T. Ravena 4, Thompson 2, Malonzo 2, Newsome 0, Adams 0.

Saudi Arabia 46 – Abdel Gabar 9, Kadi 9, Ma. Almarwani 9, Mo. Almarwani 8, Almuwallad 4, Belal 3, Mohammed 2, Abo Jalas 2, Alsager 0, Albargawi 0.

Quarters: 14-11, 37-28, 61-36, 84-46.

Golden State Warrior routs Boston in Game 2 of the 2022 NBA Finals

June 7, 2022
Golden State Warrior routs Boston in Game 2 of the 2022 NBA Finals
Image: @warriors

The Golden State Warriors evens the series by winning game 2 of the NBA Finals. Much like Game 1, the Warriors had their patented 3rd quarter game by out scoring the Boston Celtics 35 to 14 but unlike their 4th qtr breakdown in game 1, the Warriors held on to finish 107-88.

Steph Curry was leading the Warrior with his 29 pts, 6 rebounds and 4 assists, getting plenty of help from Klay Thompson and Andrew Wiggin, who scored 11 pts a piece, Kevon Looney with his 12 pts (6/6 field goal) and Jordan Poole contributing 17 points, and had his moments in the closing minutes of the 3rd quarter, most notably that buzzer beater at half court.

As a team, the Golden State Warriors shot 45.3% (39/86) from the field with 40.5% (15/37) from beyond the arc and just 12 turnover.

On the other hand, the Boston Celtics as a team had similar stats with 37.5% field goal, and 40.5% three-point shooting, the difference is with their 19 turnover, that Warriors converted to 33 points.

Jason Tatum scored 21 of his 28 points in the first half for Boston, while Horford, Smart and White, the heroes of the previous game, were a none-factor in the “offense” for Boston in game 2. In Game 1, Al Horford contributed 26 points, 75% FG and 75% from the three-point line, while Marcus Smart scored 18 points with 57% 3-point shooting and Derrick White chipped-in 21-pts on a 62% shooting from beyond the arc.

The next two games will now shift to Boston, where the Warriors try to swing the home-court back in their favor. Game 3 will this Wednesday, June 8th.

Gilas Pilipinas 1-win away to take home the 14th straight SEA Games Gold in Vietnam

May 21, 2022
Gilas Pilipinas 1-win away to take home the 14th straight SEA Games Gold in Vietnam
Image: Rappler

This was a Thirdy Ravena, who lights up the stat sheet with 17 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists, and 2 steals for Gilas. This is Gilas’ 4th blow-out win, after they dispatched Cambodia, Singapore, Vietnam, and Malaysia by an average of 47.5 points. The only team that were able to threaten the Filipino cagers are the Thais, lead by Price and M. Morgan.

Scores;
Philippines 87 – T. Ravena 17, Lopez 9, Pogoy 9, Go 8, Montalbo 6, K. Ravena 6, Wright 6, Tungcab 6, Tautuaa 6, Rosario 5, Fajardo 5, Navarro 4.

Malaysia 44 – Lee 8, Wee 8, Kuek 8, Wong 6, Tem 5, Liew WY 4, Chang 3, Lew WQ 2, Ong 0, Kwaan 0.

Quarters 19-10, 39-22. 68-33, 87-44.

Read the full report on Rappler;

Golden State Warriors takes game 1 of the Western Conference Finals

May 19, 2022
Golden State Warriors takes game 1 of the Western Conference Finals

Golden State Warriors are 3-wins away for their sixth trip to the NBA Finals in the past eight years.

Game 1 was more on the defensive that offense, since the Warriors D forced Luka Doncic into just 6-for-18 shooting and a playoffs season-low 20 points. This was after coming off a 35-point and 63% shooting game to eliminate the top-seeded Phoenix Suns.

On the Golden State side, it was fairly a balanced scoring, where seven Warriors who played for at least 13 minutes are in double figures. It was a double-double night for Steph Curry, scoring 21 points with 12 rebounds and 4 assists. Received plenty of help from Andrew Wiggins and Jordan Poole contributed 19 points apiece, Klay Thompson had 15 and, Kevon Looney, Draymond Green and Otto Porter Jr. each had 10-points.

Andrew Wiggins was primary defender on Luka Doncic forcing him to a 6-of-18 shooting, that includes 3-for-10 on three-point range.

As a team, Golden State shot 46-82 (56.1%) from the field and 10-29 (34.5%) from behind the arc, while the Mavs shot 31-86 (36%) field goal and 11-48 or 22.9% from the three-point line.

To be fair, it could just be fatigue on the Mavs after coming off a 7 game series against the Phoenix Suns but they won’t have any more excuse in game 2, which will still be at Chase Center this Friday night.

NBA Lottery Results 2022: Orlando Magics takes the No. 1 overall pick

May 19, 2022
NBA Lottery Results 2022: Orlando Magics takes the No. 1 overall pick

The Orlando Magics magics will have the No. 1 overall selection in the coming 2022 NBA draft in Chicago on Thursday, June 23. The 2022 NBA Draft Lottery was held Tuesday, May 14, 2022 in Chicago.

After Orlando, the Oklahoma City Thunder, Houston Rockets, Sacramento Kings and Detroit Pistons will complete the top 5 in order.

Below are the results from the 2022 NBA Draft Lottery;

1st Round:

1. Orlando
2. Oklahoma City
3. Houston
4. Sacramento
5. Detroit
6. Indiana
7. Portland
8. Los Angeles Lakers (to New Orleans)
9. San Antonio
10. Washington
11. New York
12. LA Clippers (to Oklahoma City)
13. Charlotte
14. Cleveland
15. New Orleans (to Charlotte)
16. Atlanta
17. Brooklyn (to Houston)
18. Chicago
19. Minnesota
20. Toronto (to San Antonio)
21. Denver
22. Utah (to Memphis)
23. Philadelphia^^
24. Milwaukee
25. Boston (to San Antonio)
26. Dallas
27. Miami
28. Golden State
29. Memphis
30. Phoenix (to Oklahoma City)
^^ This pick (23) may be conveyed to Brooklyn

2nd Round:

31. Houston (to Indiana via Cleveland)
32. Orlando
33. Detroit (to Toronto via San Antonio, Washington and Chicago)
34. Oklahoma City
35. Indiana (to Orlando via Milwaukee)
36. Portland
37. Sacramento
38. Los Angeles Lakers (to San Antonio via Chicago and Washington)
39. San Antonio (to Cleveland via Utah)
40. Washington (to Minnesota via Cleveland)
41. New Orleans
42. New York
43. LA Clippers
44. Atlanta
45. Charlotte
46. Brooklyn (to Detroit)
47. Cleveland**
48. Minnesota
49. Chicago (to Sacramento via Memphis and Detroit)
50. Denver (to Minnesota via Philadelphia)
51. Toronto (to Golden State via Philadelphia)
52. Utah (to New Orleans)
53. Boston
β€” Milwaukee (forfeited)
β€” Philadelphia (to Miami via Denver; forfeited by Miami)
54. Dallas (to Washington)
55. Golden State
56. Miami (to Cleveland via Indiana)
57. Memphis (to Portland via Utah)
58. Phoenix (to Indiana)

** This pick (47) will be conveyed either to New Orleans via Atlanta, or to Memphis via New Orleans and Atlanta

This year’s draft is highly considered as one of the deepest draft that Auburn’s Jabari Smith Jr., Gonzaga’s Chet Holmgren, Duke’s Paolo Banchero and Purdue’s Jaden Ivey. Philippines’ 7-footer Kai Sotto also declared to enter the NBA Draft after a season with the Adelaide 36ers.

Warriors defeats Grizzlies (110 – 96), first to qualify for the Western Conference Finals

May 14, 2022
Warriors defeats Grizzlies (110 – 96), first to qualify for the Western Conference Finals
Image: @ESPNStatsInfo

Golden State Warriors are back in the Western Conference Finals by defeating the Memphis Grizzlies, 110 – 96.

It was a must win for the Warriors after an embarrassing lost in Game 5 at Memphis, when they trailed by as many as 55 points and lose by 39. It was an evenly matched games until in the closing minutes of the game where Warriors found their stroke in the 3-point line and went on a 21-3 run to close the game.

It started with Andrew Wiggins who scored 10 of his 18 points in the 4th qtr with a pair of timely 3s that kept them in the game, then Steph Curry found his shooting touch late in the closing minute. together with Klay Thompson, who shot 8 of 14 from 3-point range β€” 11 for 22 for the game – this was his fourth career postseason game with eight 3s, tying Ray Allen, Curry, and Damian Lillard for most in NBA history.

GSW also got a huge boost from Kevon Looney grabbing 22 rebounds and Draymond Green with 14-points, 15-rebounds and 8-assists.

The Grizzlies are without their 3rd-year star PG Ja Morant, who is suffering from a bone bruise, which the team blamed on Jordan Poole pulling on the knee while going for a loose ball in Game 3.

The Warriors are also missing key personnel namely; Gary Payton II with a broken his left elbow, which suffered from an awkward fall after being hit over the head by Brooks in Game 2; Otto Porter Jr. with soreness in his right foot and Veteran Andre Iguodala, who is still sidelined with a left cervical disc injury. Warriors head coach Steve Kerr is also MIA, since entering league’s Health & Safety protocols, he is expected to be back by Game 1 of the WCF.

The Golden State Warrior will face the winner of the game 7 matchup between Phoenix Suns and Dallas Mavericks.

Alaska’s PBA franchise will be acquired by Converge ICT Solutions

March 23, 2022
Alaska’s PBA franchise will be acquired by Converge ICT Solutions
Image: pba.ph

After announcing the team’s exit from the PBA more than a month ago, Alaska’s PBA franchise will be acquired by Converge ICT Solutions. Financial details of the deal was not disclose.

PBA board approves sale of Alaska franchise to Converge ICT Solutions and an official statement was also released by PBA.

Alaska is undeniably the most storied PBA Franchise, who first joined Asia’s first play for pay league in 1986, winning 14 championships including a grandslam in 1996.

NBA Roundup for March 23rd Games; Warriors lost to Magics, Hawks defeated Knicks in their return to MSG, Bucks and Nuggets taking care of business at hime.

March 23, 2022
NBA Roundup for March 23rd Games; Warriors lost to Magics, Hawks defeated Knicks in their return to MSG, Bucks and Nuggets taking care of business at hime.
Image @Bucks

Golden State Warriors – Orlando Magics

The Golden State Warriors lost to the Orlando Magics, their 3rd loss straight lost since Steph’s injury against the Boston Celtics. Warriors made it to a close game but Franz Wagner’s late three free throws with 12.2 seconds left and dunked on an inbounds play sealed the game for the Golden State.

With the Warriors’ loss (47-25), Phoenix Suns (58-14) clinched first place in the Pacific Division.

Atlanta Hawks – New York Knicks

In their first game at the Madison Square Garden since last season’s playoff, Atlanta Hawks defeated the NY Knicks. Trae Young had 45 points and 8 assists, he got a lot of help from Bogdan Bogdanovic who scored a season-high 32 points, 3 assists and 3 steals. Bogdan’s biggest contribution to the game when he hit a go-ahead 3, then another by De’Andre Hunter which is part of Hawks’ 11-0 run with 1:04 left in the game.

Hawks will visit Detroit while the Knicks will go to Charlotte on Wednesday.

Milwaukee Bucks – Chicago Bulls

Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 25 points and 17 rebounds in his return after missing games because of a sore right knee. Bucks missed the services of All-Star forward Khris Middleton, who was dealing with a sore left wrist. Bucks also saw the return of Brook Lopez, who had 10 points and 6 rebounds in 24 minutes for Milwaukee. Lopez came off the bench in the last three games after missing 67 because of a back injury that needed surgery.

Bucks will host the Washington Wizard while the Bulls will visit New Orleans this Thursday.

LA Clippers – Denver Nuggets

Denver Nuggets took care of their business at home by a 127-115 win over the LA Clippers. Nikola Jokic bounced back from a poor shooting night by scoring 30 points, 14 reb and 6 assists. Jokic had a lot of help from Hyland, Aaron Gordon and Jeff Green, chipping in 16 points and a combined 12 rebounds and 11 assists.

Clippers will be hosting the Philadelphia 76ers this Friday and Nuggets will need another monster game from Jokic, to fend off the Phoenix Suns this Thursday.

Here’s the result of the NBA 2022 All-Star Draft

February 13, 2022
Here’s the result of the NBA 2022 All-Star Draft

All-Star captains LeBron James and Kevin Durant just drafted their respective starters and reserves for the 2022 NBA All-Star Game in Cleveland. There were a number of awkward moment, especially the 2022 All-Star Draft happened right after the trade deadline and specially at the end where Kevin Durant choose Rudy Gobert over James Harden, who was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers.

Kevin Durant and former-teammate Draymond Green, where named All Star but will be unable to play because of injury. They will be replaced by Jason Tatum (Celtics) and Dejounte Murray (Spurs), respectively.

Team LeBron


Starters:

  • Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks
  • Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors
  • DeMar DeRozan, Chicago Bulls
  • LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers (captain)
  • Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets

Reserves:

  • Jimmy Butler, Miami Heat
  • Luka Doncic, Dallas Mavericks
  • Darius Garland, Cleveland Cavaliers
  • James Harden, Philadelphia 76ers
  • Donovan Mitchell, Utah Jazz
  • Chris Paul, Phoenix Suns
  • Fred VanVleet, Toronto Raptors

Team Durant


Starters:

  • ** Kevin Durant, Brooklyn Nets (captain)
  • Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers
  • Ja Morant, Memphis Grizzlies
  • Jayson Tatum, Boston Celtics
  • Andrew Wiggins, Golden State Warriors
  • Trae Young, Atlanta Hawks

    • ** = injured

Reserves:

  • LaMelo Ball, Charlotte Hornets
  • Devin Booker, Phoenix Suns
  • Rudy Gobert, Utah Jazz
  • Zach LaVine, Chicago Bulls
  • Khris Middleton, Milwaukee Bucks
  • Dejounte Murray, San Antonio Spurs
  • Karl-Anthony Towns, Minnesota Timberwolves
  • ** Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors

    • ** = injured

The matchup between Team LeBron and Team Durant in the 71st NBA All-Star Game will take place on Sunday, Feb. 20 at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, airing live at 8 p.m.

Participants for the NBA 2022 All-Star Slam Dunk Contest

February 11, 2022
Participants for the NBA 2022 All-Star Slam Dunk Contest

Here are the participants for this year’s NBA 2022 All-Star Slam Dunk Contest, that will happen on Saturday, Feb. 19 at 8 p.m. ET (TNT) at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, Ohio.

Here the complete list;
β€’ Cole Anthony, Orlando Magic
β€’ Juan Toscano-Anderson, Golden State Warriors
β€’ Obi Toppin, New York Knicks
β€’ Jalen Green, Houston Rockets

This year’s slam dunk contest will be free for all, since there’s no clear winner and will probably come down to whoever execute the most creative dunk.

Here’s the highlight of last year’s contest.

Participants for the Mountain Dew 3-Point Contest at the NBA 2022 All-Star in Cleveland

February 10, 2022
Participants for the Mountain Dew 3-Point Contest at the NBA 2022 All-Star in Cleveland

Even though Steph Curry will not defend his 3-Point crown, there are plenty of star power for this year’s Mountain Dew 3-Point Contest at the NBA 2022 All-Star in Cleveland.

Headlining the 8-player contest are;
β€’ CJ McCollum, New Orleans Pelicans
β€’ Trae Young, Atlanta Hawks
β€’ Zach LaVine, Chicago Bulls
β€’ Desmond Bane, Memphis Grizzlies
β€’ Karl-Anthony Towns, Minnesota Timberwolves
β€’ Fred VanVleet, Toronto Raptors
β€’ Luke Kennard, LA Clippers
β€’ Patty Mills, Brooklyn Nets

Our of the 8, my favorite to win the contest is Trae Young, who whether he wants to admit it or not, looks like Steph Curry Jr. πŸ™‚

To give you a refresher, here’s the highlights from last year’s MTN DEW 3-Point Contest;

TheNBA 2022 All-Star MTN DEW 3-Point Contest will take place on Saturday, Feb. 19 at 8 p.m. ET, telecast by TNT at the Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, Ohio.