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Your latest sports news, in the Philippines and around the world.

Brazil defeats Gilas Pilipinas, advances to the Finals of FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament 2024

July 7, 2024

Brazil will advance to the Finals of the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament 2024 and will be one win away to compete at the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics. They defeated Gilas Pilipinas in a hard-fought 71-60 victory on Saturday, July 6, 2024.

A dominant third quarter sealed the deal for Brazil. Led by Bruno Caboclo’s double-double (15 points, 11 rebounds) and Lucas Dias’ strong showing (10 points and 9 rebounds), they turned the tide. Brazil tightened their defense, limiting Gilas to just 6 points in the third while exploding for 24 of their own.

Gilas Pilipinas was missing the services of big-man Kai Sotto. Additionally, Justin Brownlee’s, the hero of the first two games, was limited to the just 15 points and 8 rebounds. Brownlee averages 27 points, 8.5 rebounds and 8.5 assists, prior to the Brazil game.

Brazil will face Latvia in the Finals of the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament 2024. The winner of this game will claim one of the four remaining spots for the 2024 Paris Olympics, which begin on July 26th, 2024.

Despite the loss, Gilas Pilipinas can hold their heads high. They will surely have another opportunity to compete on the world stage.

Semi-Finals matchup for the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament 2024

July 5, 2024

Pairings for the Semi-Finals matchup for the 2024 FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers are now complete. Here are the matchups:

Greece Tournament

  • Slovenia vs. Greece
  • Croatia vs. Dominican Republic

Spain Tournament

  • Bahamas vs. Lebanon
  • Finland vs. Spain

Latvia

  • Brazil vs. Philippines
  • Cameroon vs. Latvia

Puerto Rico

  • Puerto Rico vs. Mexico
  • Lithuania vs. Italy

All games are schedule this Saturday, July 6th, except for the Puerto Rico vs. Mexico, which is scheduled on July 7th.

Aside from the Brazil vs. Philippines, which all Pinoy hoopers will be watching, the Slovenia vs. Greece will be worth a watch, since it will feature NBA superstars Luka Doncic and Giannis Antetokounmpo. Unlike in the NBA where its a best of 7 games, the semis of the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament 2024 is a winner take all game.

Luka is averaging a triple-double in the tournament with 31 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists but needs with a playtime of 36.1 mins. While Giannis is averaging 32 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists but only needs to play for 18.2 mins. Giannis will surely increase specially against a fellow NBA Superstar.

Gilas Pilipinas lost to Georgia but Secures Semi-Finals of FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers

July 4, 2024

The Philippine national basketball team, Gilas Pilipinas, fell to Georgia in a close match during their FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers game on Thursday. Despite the loss, Gilas secured their spot in the Semi-Finals round. Georgia needed a victory by at least 19 points to advance themselves.

Georgia came out strong in the first quarter, going on a dominant 16-0 run. Gilas clawed their way back, but Georgia still held a commanding 20-point lead (40-20) in the second quarter. However, Gilas refused to give up. They closed the gap with a 12-0 run before halftime and carried that momentum into the third quarter. With just 75 seconds remaining in the third period, Gilas even took their first lead of the game at 71-70.

Gilas Pilipinas trailed for most of the fourth. However, they kept the score close, forcing Georgia shot some “hail-mary” threes. Georgia even tried to extend the game to overtime but Goga Bitadze missed a put back on Philippines court, after Chris Newsome missed both of his free throw with just 2.8 seconds remaining in the game.

Just like their game against Latvia, Justin Brownless lead the team with 28 points, 8 rebounds and 8 assists. Followed by Dwight Ramos and CJ Peres who scored 16 points and 14 points, respectively.

On Georgia’s side, even with their contribution, it was not enough for them to carry the team to the next stage of the tournament; Tornike Shengelia (17 points and 7 rebounds), Goga Bitadze (21 points and 9 rebounds), and Sandro Mamukelashvili (26 points and 7 rebounds).

Gilas Pilipinas will either play Brazil or Montenegro from GROUP B.

Gila Pilipinas upset Latvia in the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament

July 3, 2024

The Philippines National Basketball team, Gilas Pilipinas, kicked off their FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament campaign in dramatic fashion with an upset victory over host nation Latvia on Wednesday. The final score: 89-80.

This is Philippines first win against a European team in an official FIBA competition since 1960, snapping a 64-year winless streak. The victory comes despite the absence of NBA player Jordan Clarkson, highlighting the depth and resilience of the Gilas Pilipinas squad.

Gilas Pilipinas started the game on an 8-0 run, then Latvia made a run at 21-16, but Gilas ended the 1st quarter on a 11-0 run punctuated by a clutch buzzer-beater by CJ Perez.

In the 2nd quarter, Latvia tried to make a run, but both teams managed to cancel each other out by scoring 22 points in the second period. In the second half, Latvia managed to make the game interesting by limiting Gilas to just 12 points in the final quarter. However, the 16-point lead that Gilas built in the first quarter proved too much for Latvia to overcome. The only consolation for the Latvian National Team is that they have already qualified for the semi-finals, unless Gilas wins by 28 points or more.

Justin Brownlee spearheaded Glias’ offense, scoring a game-high 26 points. He also contributed significantly with 9 rebounds and 9 assists, falling just one assist and rebound short of a coveted triple-double.

Brownlee received a lot help from Kai Sotto chipping-in 18 points and 8 rebounds, and 12 points from Dwight Ramos adding 12 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists. Gilas Head coach Tim Cone expressed surprise at the result, but hopes the team will use this momentum for the rest of the tournament.

Gilas next opponent is Georgia, and a win is crucial for Gilas to progress to the semi-finals and a step closer to qualify for the Paris Olympics.

Game highlights

Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese makes the WNBA All-Stars Roster

July 3, 2024

WNBA has announced the 2024 WNBA All-Stars Roster that will face the USA Women’s National Team this coming July 20th, which is one of the main event for the coming WNBA All Star in Phoenix.

The are rookie phenom Caitlin Clark (Indiana) with 700,735 votes, followed by her teammate Aliyah Boston with 618,680 votes, then A’ja Wilson (Las Vegas) with 607,300 and NY Liberty star Breanna Stewart with 424,135 votes. To complete the top 5 fan vote-getters we have Chicago rookie Angel Reese with 381,518 votes.

Here’s the rest of the WNBA All-Stars Roster;

PLAYER TEAM POSITION
Aliyah Boston Indiana Fever Frontcourt
Allisha Gray Atlanta Dream Backcourt
Angel Reese^ Chicago Sky Frontcourt
Arike Ogunbowale Dallas Wings Backcourt
Brionna Jones Connecticut Sun Frontcourt
Caitlin Clark^ Indiana Fever Backcourt
Dearica Hamby Los Angeles Sparks Frontcourt
DeWanna Bonner Connecticut Sun Frontcourt
Jonquel Jones New York Liberty Frontcourt
Kayla McBride Minnesota Lynx Backcourt
Kelsey Mitchell Indiana Fever Backcourt
Nneka Ogwumike Seattle Storm Frontcourt

Aside from the WNBA All Star vs USA Women’s National Team, other events at the WNBA All Star are; 3-Point Contest and the Skills Challenge. The league has yet to announced the participants to these events. Last year, Sabrina Ionescu won the 3-Point Contest, while team mate Kelsey Plum and Chelsea Gray won the Skills Challenge.

Source: WNBA

Players who got drafted in the Second Round of the 2024 NBA Draft

June 29, 2024

The second round of the 2024 NBA Draft has concluded, making the entire 2024 NBA Draft complete. The second round went by rather quietly, with the biggest story being Bronny James being drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers. This marks a historic moment, as LeBron James and his eldest son, Bronny James, are now officially teammates.

Aside from Bronny, there were two other noteworthy storylines. First, Kyle Filipowski’s fall to the second round surprised many, as both agents and GMs projected him as a first-round pick. Second, Cam Spencer, drafted by the LA Clippers, joins his brother who was drafted by the LA Lakers two years ago.

Here’s the complete list of the second round of the 2024 NBA Draft;

  1. Raptors draft Jonathan Mogbo (San Francisco)
  2. Jazz draft Kyle Filipowski (Duke)
  3. Bucks draft Tyler Smith (G League Ignite)
  4. Trail Blazers draft Tyler Kolek (Marquette) โ€” Traded to Knicks
  5. Spurs draft Johnny Furphy (Kansas) โ€” Traded to Pacers
  6. Pacers draft Juan Nunez (Ratiopharm Ulm) โ€” Traded to Spurs
  7. Timberwolves draft Bobi Klintman (Cairns) โ€” Reportedly traded to Pistons
  8. Knicks draft Ajay Mitchell (UC Santa Barbara) โ€” Traded to Thunder
  9. Grizzlies draft Jaylen Wells (Washington State)
  10. Trail Blazers draft Oso Ighodaro (Marquette) โ€” Traded to Suns (via Knicks)
  11. 76ers draft Adem Bona (UCLA)

  12. Hornets draft KJ Simpson (Colorado)
  13. Heat draft Nikola Djurisic (KK Mega Basket) โ€” Traded to Hawks (via Heat)
  14. Rockets draft Pelle Larsson (Arizona) โ€” Traded to Heat (via Rockets)
  15. Kings draft Jamal Shead (Houston) โ€” Reportedly traded to Raptors
  16. Clippers draft Cam Christie (Minnesota)
  17. Magic draft Antonio Reeves (Kentucky) โ€” Traded to Pelicans
  18. Spurs draft Harrison Ingram (North Carolina)
  19. Pacers draft Tristen Newton (Connecticut)
  20. Pacers draft Enrique Freeman (Akron)
  21. Knicks draft Melvin Ajinca (Saint-Quentin Basketball) โ€” Traded to Mavericks
  22. Warriors draft Quinten Post (Boston College) โ€” Traded to Thunder, then to Blazers, then to Warriors
  23. Pistons draft Cam Spencer (Connecticut) โ€” Reportedly traded to Grizzlies (via Timberwolves)
  24. Celtics draft Anton Watson (Gonzaga)
  25. Lakers draft Bronny James (USC)

  26. Suns draft Kevin McCullar Jr. (Kansas) โ€” Traded to Knicks
  27. Grizzlies draft Ulrich Chomche (NBA Academy Africa) โ€” Reportedly traded to Raptors (via Timberwolves)
  28. Mavericks draft Ariel Hukporti (MHP Riesen) โ€” Traded to Knicks
  • Suns and 76ers each lost a 2024 Draft second-round pick due to League penalty.

Source: NBA

Who Got Drafted? A Look at the First Round of the 2024 NBA Draft

June 27, 2024

The first day of the 2024 NBA Draft is in the books, and the Lakers did not draft Bronny James, instead they got what can be considered the biggest steal of the draft at #17 – Dalton Knecht, from the University of Tennessee and lead the team producing “21.7 points, 4.9 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 2.6 3s per game while shooting 45.8% from the field and 39.7% from deep.”

For those who were not able to follow the live broadcast here’s the complete list of the first round of the 2024 NBA Draft;

  1. Hawks draft Zaccharie Risacher (JL Bourg-en-Bresse)

  2. Wizards draft Alex Sarr (Perth)
  3. Rockets draft Reed Sheppard (Kentucky)
  4. Spurs draft Stephon Castle (Connecticut)
  5. Pistons draft Ron Holland II (G League Ignite)
  6. Hornets draft Tidjane Salaun (Cholet Basket)
  7. Trail Blazers draft Donovan Clingan (Connecticut)
  8. Spurs draft Rob Dillingham (Kentucky) โ€” Traded to Timberwolves
  9. Grizzlies draft Zach Edey (Purdue)

  10. Jazz draft Cody Williams (Colorado)
  11. Bulls draft Matas Buzelis (G League Ignite)
  12. Thunder draft Nikola Topic (KK Crvena Zvezda)
  13. Kings draft Devin Carter (Providence)
  14. Trail Blazers draft Bub Carrington (Pittsburgh) โ€” Traded to Wizards
  15. Heat draft Kelโ€™el Ware (Indiana)
  16. 76ers draft Jared McCain (Duke)
  17. Lakers draft Dalton Knecht (Tennessee)

  18. Magic draft Tristan da Silva (Colorado)
  19. Raptors draft Jaโ€™Kobe Walter (Baylor)
  20. Cavaliers draft Jaylon Tyson (Cal)
  21. Pelicans draft Yves Missi (Baylor)
  22. Suns draft DaRon Holmes II (Dayton) โ€” Traded to Nuggets
  23. Bucks draft AJ Johnson (Illawarra)
  24. Knicks draft Kyshawn George (Miami) โ€” Traded to Wizards
  25. Knicks draft Pacome Dadiet (Ratiopharm Ulm)

  26. Wizards draft Dillon Jones (Weber State) โ€” Traded to Thunder (via Knicks)
  27. Timberwolves draft Terrence Shannon Jr. (Illinois)
  28. Nuggets draft Ryan Dunn (Virginia) โ€” Traded to Suns
  29. Jazz draft Isaiah Collier (USC)
  30. Celtics draft Baylor Scheierman (Creighton)

Second day/round of the draft will be tomorrow, Thurs., June 27 at ESPNโ€™s Seaport District Studios in New York.

ICYMI: Boston Celtics Win 2024 NBA Championship

June 23, 2024

After a dominant season, the Boston Celtics are back on top of the NBA mountain. With a convincing 4-1 victory over the Dallas Mavericks in the Finals, the Celtics secured their 18th championship title, etching their name in history as the winningest franchise in NBA history.

Jayson Tatum, finally hoisting his first Larry O’Brien trophy, delivered a masterful performance throughout the playoffs, culminating in a phenomenal 31-point, 11-assist and 8 rebounds in the clinching Game 5. Tatum wasn’t alone. Jaylen Brown, the newly crowned Finals MVP, proved himself to be an unstoppable force on both ends of the court, averaging over 23.9 points per game in the Finals series. Then there’s Jrue Holiday, who finished with 15 points and 11 rebounds and Center Kristaps Porzingis who provided the emotional anchor after missing the game 3 and 4 because of a dislocated tendon in his left ankle, he chipped-in five points in 17 minutes.

Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla deserves all the respects for his leadership throughout the season. After receiving most of the criticism last season due to his lack of coaching experience on the NBA’s biggest stage, this championship win is a remarkable turnaround.

Here are some of the highlights for the Boston Celtics celebrations;

Team USA Womenโ€™s Basketball Roster for 2024 Paris Olympics now Official

June 12, 2024
Team USA Womenโ€™s Basketball Roster for 2024 Paris Olympics now Official

After being leaked a couple of days ago, the official roster for the Team USA Womenโ€™s Basketball for 2024 Paris Olympics have been officially announced.

As previously leaked and now official, below are the official roster of Team USA Womenโ€™s Basketball for 2024 Paris Olympics;

Player WNBA Team Position
Napheesa Collier Minnesota Lynx Forward
Kahleah Copper Phoenix Mercury Guard/Forward
Chelsea Gray Las Vegas Aces Guard
Brittney Griner Phoenix Mercury Center
Sabrina Ionescu New York Liberty Guard
Jewell Loyd Seattle Storm Guard
Kelsey Plum Las Vegas Aces Guard
Breanna Stewart New York Liberty Forward
Diana Taurasi Phoenix Mercury Guard
Alyssa Thomas Connecticut Sun Forward
A’ja Wilson Las Vegas Aces Forward/Center
Jackie Young Las Vegas Aces Guard/Forward

USA Womenโ€™s National Team head coach Cheryl Reeve with the assistance of Kara Lawson, Joni Taylor and Mike Thibault.

Here is what USA Basketball Womenโ€™s National Team Committee chair Jen Rizzotti said in the official statement;

“On behalf of USA Basketball, Iโ€™m excited to announce the 2024 USA Womenโ€™s National Team, We have selected a team that we are confident will represent our country to the highest standard in Paris. Basketball in the United States boasts unparalleled depth, making this a challenging and competitive process. The commitment these athletes have shown to USA Basketball is unmatched and I look forward to watching them take on the World in Paris.โ€

This is what USA Womenโ€™s National Team head coach Cheryl Reeve said regarding the roster;

โ€œThis roster features some of the best basketball talent our country has to offer and Iโ€™m excited to lead this team with the goal of winning an eighth straight Olympic gold medal in Paris, Iโ€™m looking forward to getting together in Phoenix and starting the journey to Paris.โ€

Caitlin Clark reacts to being left off the USA Women’s Basketball Roster for the 2024 Paris Olympics

June 9, 2024

ookie phenom Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever finally ended the discussion regarding the reported USA Women’s Basketball Roster for the 2024 Paris Olympics.

After practice with the Indiana Fever on Sunday, Caitlin Clark spoke about being left off the final Team USA roster for the Paris Olympics.

โ€œIโ€™m excited for the girls that are on the team. I know itโ€™s the most competitive team in the world, and I know it could have gone either way, me being on the team, me not being on the team. So Iโ€™m excited for them. Iโ€™m going to be rooting them on to win gold. I was a kid that grew up watching the Olympics, so, yeah, itโ€™ll be fun to watch them.

When asked if she was disappointed to be left off the roster, Clark added โ€œHonestly, no disappointment. I think it just gives you something to work for. Thatโ€™s a dream. Hopefully one day I can be there. I think itโ€™s just a little more motivation. You remember that and hopefully in four yearsโ€ฆ I can be there.

Indiana Fever Head Coach Christie Sides also answered questions regarding the topic of Caitlin Clark not making the USA Women’s Basketball Roster.

You can watch the full video below;

Timberwolves Claw Back Against Mavericks in Tight Game 4 Victory

May 29, 2024

The Minnesota Timberwolves are refusing to go down without a fight! After three straight heartbreaking losses to the Dallas Mavericks in the Western Conference Finals, the Timberwolves finally secured a crucial win on their home court, defeating the Mavs 105-100 in a nail-biting Game 4.

This victory keeps their season alive and forces a Game 5 back in Minneapolis. The series remains heavily in favor of Dallas, who lead 3-1, but the Timberwolves have shown they have the grit and determination to push this talented Mavericks team to the limit.

Karl-Anthony Towns, the Timberwolves’ star center, had faced criticism for his performance in the first three games. However, he bounced back in a big way for Game 4. Towns was allover the court, near 70% from the field, with 4 of 5 from beyond the arc. His improved play was a major factor in keeping Minnesota competitive throughout the game.

While Towns’ resurgence was important, the key to the Timberwolves’ win was their defense. After struggling to contain Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving in the previous games, Minnesota tightened up their rotations and made it specially difficult for Kyrie Irving to find his offensive groove. Irving is averaging 27.67 pts in the series, he just scored 16pts in game 4.

While the Timberwolves have shown they can compete, the challenge ahead remains daunting. Dallas still holds a commanding 3-1 series lead, and as history suggests, no professional sports team has overcome a 0-3 deficit in a best-of-seven series.

However, this win has injected hope into the Minnesota fans. The Timberwolves have proven they can win in this series, and they’ll be looking to extend the series as they head back home for a crucial Game 5.

Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals will be at the Target Center this Thursday, 30th of May.

Larry Bird, Jabbar and Magic Posts on Bill Walton

May 28, 2024

Here are some but not all of the tributes and posts on Bill Walton, who passed away at 71, after prolonged battle with cancer.

NBA Legend Bill Walton Passes Away at 71

May 28, 2024

NBA Hall of Famer and Basketball legend Bill Walton, has passed away at the age of 71 after a prolonged battle with cancer. Walton, a two-time NBA champion and Hall of Famer, died on Monday surrounded by family in a statement released by the NBA.

Bill Walton is a two-time NBA champion; 1976โ€“77 season with the Portland Trail Blazers, also named Finals MVP, and 1984โ€“85 season with Boston Celtics, earning the sixth man award. Walton is a member of both the NBAโ€™s 50th anniversary and 75th anniversary teams. For his college career, he is a two-time champion at UCLA and a three-time national player of the year.

Tributes are pouring in from across the basketball community. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver called Walton “truly one of a kind,” while former teammate Larry Bird described him as a “great friend” and “a thrill to play with.”

It’s the Conference Finals of the NBA 2024

May 20, 2024

It’s the semifinals of the NBA 2024 and it comes down to just 4 teams; the Dallas Mavericks and Minnesota Timberwolves for the Western Conference, as for the East Conf. we have the Boston Celtics and the Indian Pacers.

Minnesota and Indiana advanced to the Conf. Finals after a grueling Game 7. Dallas needed 6 games to advanced, while Boston just took care of the business in just 5 games and have been waiting on the sideline.

  • Game 1 of the WCF between Minnesota and Dallas will be this Wednesday, May 22, 2024, 3:00 AM (Saudi time)
  • Game 1 of the ECF between Boston and Indiana will be on Thursday, May 23, 2024 3:30 AM (Saudi time)

USA Basketball officially announced the 2024 USA Basketball Menโ€™s National Team

April 23, 2024

The USA Basketball has officially announced the 12-man roster of the 2024 USA Basketball Menโ€™s National Team for this year’s Summer Olympic bound for Paris. The team was selected by USA Basketball Menโ€™s National Team managing director Grant Hill and approved by the USA Basketball Board of Directors.

  1. Kevin Durant (Phoenix Suns)
  2. LeBron James (Los Angeles Lakers)
  3. Bam Adebayo (Miami Heat)
  4. Devin Booker (Phoenix Suns)
  5. Stephen Curry (Golden State Warriors)
  6. Anthony Davis (Los Angeles Lakers)
  7. Anthony Edwards (Minnesota Timberwolves)
  8. Joel Embiid (Philadelphia 76ers)
  9. Tyrese Haliburton (Indiana Pacers)
  10. Jrue Holiday (Boston Celtics)
  11. Kawhi Leonard (L.A. Clippers)
  12. Jayson Tatum (Boston Celtics)

The 2024 USA Menโ€™s National Team will be led by head coach Steve Kerr (Golden State Warriors), who is assisted by Mark Few (Gonzaga University), Tyronn Lue (L.A. Clippers) and Erik Spoelstra (Miami Heat). Last summer, the quartet coached the 2023 USA Basketball Menโ€™s National Team to a fourth-place finish at the 2023 FIBA Menโ€™s World Cup in Manila.

The team boasts of 12 NBA All-Stars, four NBA MVPs and six NBA champions, as for their international experience, the team brings a combined 11 Olympic appearances and owns 10 Olympic gold medals as well as three FIBA World Cup titles. Talent-wise, we can say that the 2024 Dream team can be compared to the 1992 Dream Team, as for their performance, I guess we’ll just have to wait and see.

If you want to see the team in action, USA Basketball will commence training camp on July 6 in Las Vegas. Following the game vs. Canada, the Americans will embark on an international training window that begins when the USA hosts Australia and Serbia on July 15 and 17, respectively, at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi. Australia and Serbia will also face off on July 18 in Abu Dhabi.

Source: USA Basketball

Here’s the 2024 NCAA Women’s Basketball Bracket

March 20, 2024

We now have the 2024 NCAA Women’s Basketball Bracket and that Albany 2 bracket is brutal, whether you’re a fan of Iowa’s Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese from LSU or UCLA.. it looks like it will be a long journey to the Final 4.

On the countrary, Gamecocks fans should be celebrating, since they are in the easiest bracket of the tournatment. The South Carolina Gamecocks, who are undefeated going to the tournament are the favorite to win it all, let’s be real, if you’re team is undefeated for the season, any bracket will be an easy bracket regardless of the matchup.

Here’s the complete 2024 NCAA Women’s Basketball Bracket, click the image for a larger view, you can also visit the interactive version of the 2024 NCAA Women’s Basketball Bracket at ncaa.com

You can check the complete schedule for Womenโ€™s 2024 NCAA College Basketball Tournament here.

Complete schedule for Women’s 2024 NCAA College Basketball Tournament

March 16, 2024

It’s March Madness once again, but this time my eyes are on the Women’s 2024 NCAA College Basketball Tournament. Whether you’re just jumping on the Women’s College Basketball bandwagon or have been following it for a long time, this year Women’s College Basketball is at its all-time high in terms of popularity and media coverage. It may be the Caitlin Clark effect or a combination of a lot of things.

Sixty-eight of the best collegiate basketball teams will compete for the NCAA championship title. The women’s bracket will be revealed along with their seeding and matchups during Selection Sunday on March 17 on ESPN.

First Four: March 20-21

These games feature play-in matchups between the lowest-seeded teams for the final spots in the main bracket.

First and Second round: March 22-25

These games will determine which teams advance to the Sweet Sixteen.

Sweet 16: March 29-30

The winners will move on to the Elite Eight, this means the team are just 4 wins away from the NCAA championship title.

Elite Eight: March 31-April 1

The winners will move on to the Final Four.

Final Four: Friday, April 5

This is a do-or-die games for the remaining teams and the two winning teams will then battle it out for the championship title in the National Championship game.

NCAA championship game: Sunday, April 7

Will this be the year for Caitlin Clark to finally get cement her legacy as the greatest collegiate athelete in the world, since a National Championship is the only missing piece in her decorated college career.

Watch the Steph Curry versus Sabrina Ionescu Three Point Challenge

February 18, 2024

If you missed the Steph Curry versus Sabrina Ionescu Three Point Challenge, then just hit the PLAY button from the video bellow to watch the entirety of the contest. Spoiler alert, Steph Curry barely won the event after rallying at the end.

Sabrina Ionescu, who won the WNBA’s 3-point shootout at its All-Star Weekend last year with a record 37 points, breaking Curry’s NBA shootout record of 31 points. Since then the challenge was issued and a plan to meet at the 2024 NBA All-Star Weekend was made.

Since the Three Point Challenge was positively received, it’s not surprising if the NBA and WNBA keep the event for next year.

Klay Thompson drops 35-points coming off the bench to lead the win against the Utah Jazz (140-137)

February 16, 2024

After a disappointing performance against the LA Clippers, Klay Thompson came off the bench for the first time since his rookie season, scored a season high of 35 points, knocking down 7 three-pointers in 13 shots, and lead the Golden State Warriors to win against the Utah Jazz, second time this week.

Draymond Green helped on both ends of the court scoring a season high 23 points, with 5 rebounds, 5 assists, 4 steals and 2 blocks. Steph Curry was having another off-night, scored 16 points but was 2 of 8 from three-point line. Andrew Wiggins and Jonathan Kuminga scored 19 and 13 points, respectively. Brandin Podziemski, who replaced Klay in the starting lineup, chipped-in 13 points, grabbing 6 rebounds and dishing out 8 assist. As a team, six players from Warriors scored in double figures and shot 53.3% from the field.

The Warriors win is also the 500th win of Steve Kerr as a Warriors Head Coach.Here’s what HC Steve Kerr has to say about his 500th win;

For the Jazz, Collin Sexton and Keyonte George lead the Jazz, scoring 35 and 33 points, respectively, while John Collins scored 18 points but made a critical turnover by throwing the ball away ball after rebounding the ball and could potentially gave Utah the lead with just 3 seconds remaining in the game.

This is Utah and Golden State last game before the All Star break, that will take place in Indianapolis on Feb. 16-18, 2024. Next for the Warriors will be against the LA Lakers while Utah will face Charlotte Hornets both games will be on the 23rd after the All Star Break.

Watch the last 5 mins ending of the Warriors versus the Jazz;.

Warriors captures 5th straight win against the Jazz (129-107)

February 13, 2024

The Golden State Warriors are on a roll, securing their 5th straight win and 7th in 9 games, which is enough for the team to move up the standings to 10th place.

It was a slow scoring night for Warriors’ leading scorer Steph Curry, scoring only 10 points in the first half and after a scoreless 3rd qtr, Curry made five 3-pointers in the fourth to capped a 14-5 Warriors run with 4:47 remaining in the game.

Klay Thompson scored 26 points with 5 rebounds, to help get the win even without Warriors Head Coach Steve Kerr who when to Serbia for the funeral service for Golden State assistant coach Dejan Milojevic, who had a heart attack at a team dinner in Salt Lake City on Jan. 16 . Kerr was with assistant coaches Chris DeMarco and Ron Adams, general manager Mike Dunleavy, team liaison Zaza Pachulia, and team vice president Rick Celebrini.

Together with the Splash Brothers, 6 other Warriors scored double figures; Kuminga and Wiggins scored 14 points and 17 points, respectively, while Draymond Green anchored the defense and was flirting with a triple-double game with his 12 points, 10 rebounds and 8 assists, with one steal and a block.

After the trade deadline, the Utah Jazz have a very different starting line up after trading Simone Fontecchio, Kelly Olynyk and Ochai Agbaji. Colin Sexton and Jordan Clarkson both scored 22 points for the Jazz, with Lauri Markkanen adding 19 points.

Golden State Warriors will host the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday then go to Utah to play the Jazz again Thursday night. The Utah Jazz will host the LA Lakers on Wednesday evening.

Warriors Game Highlights;

Steph Curry makes end-of-regulation 3-Pointer to carry Warriors past the Suns (113-112)

February 11, 2024

Steph Curry made a last-second three-pointer to lift the Warriors against the Suns in an epic showdown with Devin Booker and former-teammate Kevin Durant.

It was a close game from start to finish and the largest lead by either team was just 7 points. The game got intense in the final quarter with 6 lead changes.

Steph Curry, the leading scorer for the Warriors, secure the lead for Golden State with 3.3 second remaining in regulation, received an inbound pass from Brandin Podziemski and made the three from 29 feet and with the out stretch arms of Bradley Beal and Devin Booker.

Jonathan Kuminga added 21 points and 5 rebounds, while Draymond Green chipped-in 15 points, 7 rebounds and 9 assists.

Suns’ big 3 were running on all cylinders, with Ken Durant, a former-Warriors, scoring 24 points, 10 rebounds and 7 assists; Devin Booker, score a team high 32 points and 6 assists, and Bradley Beal added 15 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists.

The Golden State Warriors will visit the Utah Jazz on Monday evening, while the Phoenix Suns will host the Sacramento Kings this Tuesday night.

Here’s the final 5 minutes of Golden State Warriors vs Phoenix Suns;

Los Angeles Lakers unveil 19-foot bronze statue of Kobe Bryant

February 9, 2024

Just hours before their game agains the Denver Nuggets, the LA Lakers unveil the 19-foot bronze statue of Kobe Bryant, honoring the late superstar outside their downtown arena.

The 4,000-pound statue depicts Bryant wearing his white No. 8 jersey with his right index finger raised as he walked off the court following his 81-point performance against the Toronto Raptors in January 2006.

Here’s a side-by-side image from FIBA’s official X/twitter account;

Kobe Bryant’s 20-year career with the Lakers in a nutshell;

Bryant, an 18-time NBA All-Star, retired as the first player in NBA history to play at least 20 seasons with a single franchise. Known for his โ€˜Mamba Mentality,โ€™ he helped guide the Lakers to five NBA Championships (2000, 2001, 2002, 2009, 2010) and earned Finals MVP honors in 2009 and 2010. Voted the NBAโ€™s Most Valuable Player in 2008, Bryant earned All-NBA honors 15 times, including 11 First Team selections, and was named to 12 All-Defensive Teams throughout his career, including nine All-Defensive First Team honors.

The Hall-of-Famer and two-time Olympic gold medalist stands as the purple and goldโ€™s all-time leader in regular season games played (1,346), points (33,643), 3-pointers made (1,827), steals (1,944) and free throws made (8,378), while owning franchise playoff records for games played (220), points (5,640), 3-pointers made (292) and free throws made (1,320). A two-time scoring champion, Bryant scored a career-high and franchise-best 81 points on Jan. 22, 2006, at home versus Toronto. The Lakers retired Bryantโ€™s No. 8 and No. 24 jerseys on Dec. 18, 2017.

Kobe’s will be the 7th Laker immortalize in a statue that’s on display outside the Crypto Arena.

NBA to use LED Court at the NBA All-Star 2024

February 9, 2024

NBA just announced that they will be using the recently introduced LED Court by International Basketball Federation (FIBA) last year. The LED court was developed by ASB GlassFloor, that will be used for NBA All-Star 2024 events taking place at Lucas Oil Stadium.

The events includes the NBA All-Star Celebrity Game on Feb. 16th, and all the events happening on the All-Star Saturday Night on Feb. 17th, consisting of the Skills Challenge, the 3-Point Contest, the โ€œStephen vs. Sabrina,โ€ the first-ever NBA vs. WNBA 3-Point Challenge and Slam Dunk.

This will be the first time that the NBA will using a different kind of materials for the courts, they previously use a different design of the recently concluded Play-In Tournament but the materials are still wood, compare to the glass and LED that will be use at the NBA All-Star 2024.

The league even published a 22 seconds video showcasing the LED court that they will be using at the NBA All-Star 2024;

The NBA today unveiled the state-of-the-art full video LED court that will be used for #NBAAllStar 2024 events taking place at Lucas Oil Stadium, which include the #RufflesCelebGame (Feb. 16, 7pm/et on ESPN) and #StateFarmSaturday Night (Feb. 17, 8pm/et on TNT), consisting of #KiaSkills, #Starry3PT, โ€œStephen vs. Sabrina,โ€ the first-ever NBA vs. WNBA 3-Point Challenge and #ATTSlamDunk.

The high-performance, immersive sports floor is designed to enhance the fan experience in-arena and on broadcast through its interactive displays. During each event, visual effects displayed on the court will include the following:

โ–ช๏ธ Design and color changes
โ–ช๏ธ Live replays and other video content
โ–ช๏ธ Real-time game stats
โ–ช๏ธ Location-based player tracking animations
โ–ช๏ธ Interactive games for fans during timeouts
โ–ช๏ธ Immersive animations following key plays and moments

Golden State Warriors win over Philadelphia 76ers behind Wiggins’ 21 point game (127 – 104)

February 8, 2024

Golden State Warriors routs the Embiid-less 76ers behind the most unlikely trio of Wiggins, Kuminga and Thompson. When we talk about the Golden State Warriors, we immediately associate Steph Curry, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green, for this particular game, it was Andrew Wiggins, Jonathan Kuminga and Klay Thompson, the trio scored a total of 57 points, which helped the team since Steph Curry was having an off-night scoring only 9 points with just 2 of 7 from the field.

Even though the 76ers were without Joel Embiid, they kept the game close in the first half, but in the 2nd half the Warriors broke the game open by going on a 27-9 run, that extended their lead to 25 points.

Andrew Wiggins scored a team high of 21 points and 10 rebounds. Warriors Head Coach Steve Kerr have nothing but positive things to say about Wiggins’ performance;

At the same time, Jonathan Kuminga scored 18 points to helped seal the win for the Warriors, he also grabbed 6 rebounds and dished 5 assists. Klay Thompson bounced back from a bad game against the Nets and scored 18 points, shooting 50% from the field and making 4 of his 5 three-points shots.

For the Philadelphia 76ers, 6 players scored in double-figure led by Ricky Council IV who scored 17 points. Followed by KJ Martin with his 15 points and 5 rebounds. Pat Bev and Tobais Harris both scored 13 points apiece. It also did not helped that the 76ers missed 24 of 32 3-point shot and only grabbing 40 rebounds compared to 52 rebs from the Warriors.

This is the second consecutive win by the Warriors and second win against the Philadelphia 76ers.

Here are some highlights;

The Warriors will visit the Pacers this Thursday evening, while the 76ers will hosts the Hawks on Friday.

Justin Brownlee cleared to join Gilas Pilipinas Men for the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers

February 3, 2024

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) just announced the FIBA has cleared Justin Brownlee to play for Gilas Pilipinas Men in the first window of the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers. The basketball governing body also issued Brownlee a Notice of Charge carrying a proposed three (3) month Period of Ineligibility in relation to the anti-doping rule violation that occurred during the 19th Asian Games, which according to SBP retroactive.

Justin Brownlee will be the lone naturalized player for Gilas and will be joining 11 other cager for the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers and the upcoming Olympic Qualifying Tournament this July 2024.

Gilas, for their first two games for the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 Qualifiers, will face Hong Kong on February 22 at the Tsuen Wan Stadium and Chinese Taipei on February 25 at the PhilSports Arena and tickets for the home game are already available via smtickets.com.

Source: SBP

NBA Officially announced the 2024 NBA All-Star Game reserves

February 3, 2024

Seven days after announcing the 2024 NBA All-Star Game Starters, the league unveil the 7 All-Star Game reserves for each conferences.

Eastern Conference reserves

  • Bam Adebayo, Miami Heat
  • Paolo Banchero, Orlando Magic
  • Jaylen Brown, Boston Celtics
  • Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks
  • Tyrese Maxey, Philadelphia 76ers
  • Donovan Mitchell, Cleveland Cavaliers
  • Julius Randle, New York Knicks

Western Conference reserves

  • Devin Booker, Phoenix Suns
  • Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors
  • Anthony Davis, Los Angeles Lakers
  • Anthony Edwards, Minnesota Timberwolves
  • Paul George, LA Clippers
  • Kawhi Leonard, LA Clippers
  • Karl-Anthony Towns, Minnesota Timberwolves

Just like with the starters, the 2024 NBA All-Star Game reserves were selected by fans, current NBA players and a media panel. Fans accounted for 50% of the vote, while players and media accounted for 25% each.

Here are your 2024 NBA All-Star Game Starters

January 26, 2024

NBA has finally announced this year’s All-Star Game Starters. The TNT crew (Shaq, Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith and Ernie Johnson) even had a segment in their show to announce the 10 All Star starters.

Eastern Conference starters

  • Giannis Antetokounmpo*
  • Joel Embiid
  • Jayson Tatum
  • Tyrese Haliburton
  • Damian Lillard

Western Conference starters

  • LeBron James*
  • Kevin Durant
  • Nikola Jokic
  • Luka Doncic
  • Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

* = denotes team captain

Starters for the 2024 NBA All-Star Game were selected by fans, current NBA players and a media panel. Fans accounted for 50% of the vote, while players and media accounted for 25% each.

This year, the league will revert back to the EAST vs West format, which means that title CAPTAIN will just be for formality and each players will team up for their respective conference in the 73rd NBA All-Star Game on Sunday, Feb. 18 at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse, the home court of the Indiana Pacers.

USA Basketball announces the 41-members of the 2024 Men’s USA National Team Player Pool

January 25, 2024
USA Basketball announces the 41-members of the 2024 Men’s USA National Team Player Pool

USA Basketball, which is headed by USA Basketball executive director Grant Hill, just announced the 41-man pool for the 2024 Paris Olympics. After falling to Canada in the last FIBA World Cup 2023, which was held in Manila, USA Basketball will be fielding veterans and a newly naturalized American to win a fifth consecutive Olympic gold in Paris this summer.

The players named in the 41-player pool for the 2024 Men’s USA National Team are some of the biggest names in the sports, headlined by LeBron James, last played in the Olympics in 2012, and Stephen Curry, who has never played in the Olympics; and Joel Embiid, a Cameroon national but became a U.S. citizen in 2022.

In a tweet by the USA Basketball, all 41 players selected to the 2024 Men’s National Team Player Pool have a combined 13 Olympians, 22 World Cup participants, 24 Senior National Team gold medals and 18 Junior National Team gold medals, one of the most decorated player pool the USA Basketball have assembled.

Here are the complete list of the 41-player pool:

  1. Bam Adebayo – Miami Heat
  2. Jarrett Allen – Cleveland Cavaliers
  3. Paolo Banchero – Orland Magic
  4. Desmond Bane – Memphis Grizzlies
  5. Scottie Barnes – Toronto Raptors
  6. Devin Booker – Phoenix Suns
  7. Mikal Bridges – Brooklyn Nets
  8. Jaylen Brown – Boston Celtics
  9. Jalen Brunson – New York Knicks
  10. Jimmy Butler – Miami Heat
  11. Alex Caruso – Chicago Bulls
  12. Stephen Curry – Golden State Warriors
  13. Anthony Davis – Los Angeles Lakers
  14. Kevin Durant – Phoenix Suns
  15. Anthony Edwards – Minnesota Timberwolves
  16. Joel Embiid – Philadelphia 76ers
  17. De’Aaron Fox – Sacramento Kings
  18. Paul George – Los Angeles Clippers
  19. Aaron Gordon – Denver Nuggets
  20. Tyrese Haliburton – Indiana Pacers
  21. James Harden – Los Angeles Clippers
  22. Josh Hart – Chicago Bulls
  23. Tyler Herro – Miami Heat
  24. Jrue Holiday – Boston Celtics
  25. Chet Holmgren – Oklahoma Thunders
  26. Brandon Ingram – New Orleans Pelicans
  27. Kyrie Irving – Dallas Mavericks
  28. Jaren Jackson Jr. – Memphis Grizzlies
  29. LeBron James – Los Angeles Lakers
  30. Cam Johnson – Brooklyn Nets
  31. Walker Kessler – Utah Jazz
  32. Kawhi Leonard – Los Angeles Clippers
  33. Damian Lillard – Milwaukee Bucks
  34. Donovan Mitchell – Cleveland Cavaliers
  35. Chris Paul – Golden State Warriors
  36. Bobby Portis – Milwaukee Bucks
  37. Austin Reaves – Los Angeles Lakers
  38. Duncan Robinson – Miami Heat
  39. Jayson Tatum – Boston Celtics
  40. Derrick White – Boston Celtics
  41. Trae Young – Atlanta Hawks

The 41-player pool will then be reduced to 12-member team for the Paris Olympic Games, which will be announced as early as May or during the NBA Playoffs.

Watch the Chicago Bulls’ Inaugural Ring of Honor Ceremony 2024

January 13, 2024
Watch the Chicago Bulls’ Inaugural Ring of Honor Ceremony 2024

For those who missed the ceremony, here the inaugural class to Chicago Bulls’ Ring of Honor on Friday, January 12th. According to NBA, “The Chicago Bulls Ring of Honor will recognize and celebrate past players, coaches and front office members who made outstanding contributions and helped define the organization throughout its history.”

The inaugural class of Ring of Honor are the following;
Artis Gilmore, Phil Jackson, Michael Jordan, Johnny โ€œRedโ€ Kerr, Dick Klein, Jerry Krause, Toni Kukoc, Bob Love, Scottie Pippen, Dennis Rodman, Jerry Sloan, Chet Walker, Tex Winter, and the 1995-96 team, which went 72-10 and won the 1996 NBA Championship.

They’re the players, coaches and staff from the 1995-96 team:
Players: Randy Brown, Jud Buechler Jason Caffey, James Edwards, Jack Haley, Ron Harper, Michael Jordan, Steve Kerr, Toni Kukoc, Luc Longley, Scottie Pippen, Dennis Rodman, John Salley, Dickey Simpkins, and Bill Wennington

Coaches: Jim Cleamons, Phil Jackson, John Paxson, Jimmy Rodgers, and Tex Winter

Staff: Ivica Dukan, Clarence Gaines, Jr., Erik Helland, Jerry Krause, John Ligmanowski, Chip Schaefer, Jim Stack, and Al Vermeil

Here’s the Chicago Bulls’ Inaugural Ring of Honor Ceremony 2024;