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Posts tagged as “Basketball”

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;

Team USA Women’s Basketball Roster for 2024 Leaked sans Caitlin Clark – Shams Charania

June 9, 2024

The roster for the 2024 USA Basketball Womenโ€™s National Team have been leaked. In a tweet, Shams Charania of The Athletic and Stadium reported that “Indiana Fever rookie sensation Caitlin Clark is expected to be left off the 12-player Team USA womenโ€™s basketball roster for the upcoming Summer Olympics”

Charania then added and named the 12 players in the roster. Except for Kahleah Copper, Sabrina Ionescu, Kelsey Plum and Alyssa Thomas. All other players have Olympic experience. Fans also pointed out that rookie phenom Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever is missing from the roster. Despite receiving an invitation to the USA Basketball Women’s National Team training camp last April, Iowa Hawkeyes standout Caitlin Clark couldn’t attend due to her team’s Final Four run.

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

The final USA Women’s Basketball roster and list of potential alternates must be submitted to FIBA by June 24th. While no official announcement has been made by the USA Basketball on their official website or social media accounts.

Watch Gatorade New Ad featuring WNBA stars Caitlin Clark and A’ja Wilson with NBA’s Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum Narrated by Michael Jordan

May 30, 2024

Gatorade just released its “It hasn’t changed” ad, which features WNBA stars Caitlin Clark and A’ja Wilson, two-time Summer Olympic gold medalist Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum, and Buffalo Bills star Josh Allen. The company’s first product endorser, Michael Jordan, narrates the ad.

The ad showcases current and rising stars across various sports, including Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever, a two-time WNBA MVP and champion, alongside Las Vegas Aces’ A’ja Wilson. You can also see two-time Summer Olympic gold medalist Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, Buffalo Bills star QB Josh Allen, and Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum, who are favorites to win the NBA Championship this year.

The ad features the tagline “It hasn’t changed,” a reference to the legendary “Is it in you?” slogan. The company also brought back the colored sweat, which can be seen in their past promotional materials.

via wikipedia;

Gatorade was created in 1965, by a team of scientists at the University of Florida College of Medicine, including Robert Cade, Dana Shires, Harry James Free, and Alejandro de Quesada. Following a request from Florida Gators football head coach Ray Graves, Gatorade was created to help athletes by acting as a replacement for body fluids lost during physical exertion.

Everything about the game has changed, except for the most important thing: what you have inside.
Narrated by Michael Jordan.

Fuel up with what drives the game at Gatorade.com

FE!N by Travis Scott (ft. Playboi Carti)

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.

Boston Celtics swept the Indiana Pacers to win the 2024 Eastern Conference Championship

May 28, 2024

The Boston Celtics are headed back to the NBA Finals! They punched their ticket to the championship series after sweeping the Indiana Pacers in a tightly contested Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals (105-102).

The win capped off a dominant series sweep for the Celtics, showcasing their resilience and championship mettle. The Pacers, however, shouldn’t leave empty-handed. They pushed the Celtics to the limit, especially in a nail-biting fourth quarter of Game 4.

It was a close game, with both teams trading baskets and neither side able to establish a significant lead. The largest lead for either team was 9 points. Jaylen Brown led the Celtics with 29 points, while Jayson Tatum chipped in with 26 points. Jalen Brown wins the Larry Bird Eastern Conference Finals MVP. As for the Pacers, Andrew Nembhard had a monstrous double-double with 24 points and 10 assists with 6 rebounds, while Pascal Siakam added 19 points and 10 rebounds. Pacers missed the services of star guard Tyrese Haliburton, who was sidelined by a left hamstring injury.

The final minutes of the game were a heart-stopping display of clutch plays. With the score tied and seconds remaining, Jalen Brown found Derek White for a 23-foot three-point jumper that sealed the win for Boston. The Pacers had a chance to respond, but their final shot attempt fell short.

With the series win, the Celtics return to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2020, where they lost to the Golden State Warriors. This is a much younger team compared to their previous championship run, but they’ve shown a maturity and composure beyond their years.

They’ll now await their opponent, who will be determined in the ongoing Western Conference Finals between the Dallas Mavericks and Minnesota Timberwolves.

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;

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.

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) announces Tim Cone as Head Coach for Gilas Pilipinas Men

January 29, 2024

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) just announced that Tim Cone will be the as Head Coach for Gilas Pilipinas Men. Together with Tim Cone’s announcement, SBP also announced the 12 players roster for the first window of the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers, set this February 2024. The 12 players are composed of current PBA and UAAP players, as well as those playing in the Japanese B-League as imports.

Coach Tim Cone is one of the winningest coach in the PBA, a 25 times champion with 38 Finals appearances. He is currently the head coach of the most popular team in the PBA, the Barangay Ginebra San Miguel, a gig that he got in 2015.

โ€œCoach Tim accomplished what has not been done in decades with only a few weeks to prepare and multiple challenges in terms of personnel so weโ€™re excited to see what he can accomplish with a long-term program in place especially if such program is supported by all basketball stakeholders.โ€ said SBP President Al Panlilio.

โ€œEarlier this month, coach Tim presented his plans to local leagues from which players will likely be selected from. This program will be put to test this year and adjustments will be made as necessary,โ€ added SBP Executive Director Erika Dy.

The Philippines is also included in the Olympic Qualifying Tournament from July 2 to 7 in Latvia.

The 12 players roster for the first window of the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers are;
PBA players

  • Scottie Thompson
  • Chris Newsome
  • Calvin Oftana
  • CJ Perez
  • Jamie Malonzo
  • June Mar Fajardo

Japanese B-League imports

  • Dwight Ramos
  • AJ Edu
  • Carl Tamayo
  • Kai Sotto

UAAP

  • Kevin Quiambao

Justin Brownlee is also listed as a naturalized player but this is still waiting FIBAโ€™s approval.

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;

Warriors win over Bulls behind the Splash Brothers

January 13, 2024

The Golden State Warriors got a much needed win to stop their two game losing streak. The Warriors were carried by the Splash brothers, scoring 57 of their 140 points. Both started slow; Steph Curry was scoreless in the 1st qtr and just 6 points in the entirety of the first half, while Klay Thompson scored just 5 points, he 2 of 8 from the field in the 1st half.

But in the 3rd qtr, Thompson made all of his 5 shot from beyond the arc, helping the Warriors build a 16 point lead early the 2nd held, he ended the game with 30 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists. Steph Curry on the other hand took over in the 4th, scoring 13 points, 3 from the three-point line and made 9 assists with just one turn over. He finished the game with 27 points, 5 rebounds and 9 assists.

Together with the Splash Bros; Saric, Wiggins, Kuminga and Trayce Jackson-Davis played a big part in the game. Saric started the game and scored 12 points, 7 rebs, 6 assists and 2 steals; Wiggins added 17 points, 5 rebs and 8 assists; Kuminga and Jackson-Davis, added 24 points and 13 points, respectively. It was a total team effort for the Warriors.

The Chicago Bulls was lead by Demar DeRozan who scored a team high of 39 points, 7 rebs and 5 assists, while Coby White and Zach Lavine added 25 points a piece.

During the halftime break, Chicago Bulls recognized 13 franchise luminaries as well as the 1995-96 championship team during the inaugural Bulls Ring of Honor class. The Bulls said that will add to the Ring of Honor every two years, with the next class being revealed in 2026.

  • Golden State Warriors will continue their four-game road trip in Milwaukee on Saturday night.
  • Chicago Bulls will face the San Antonio Spurs at on Saturday night.

Warriors fell to the Raptors, powered by RJ Barrett’s 37 points game (133-118)

January 8, 2024

The Raptors gave the Warriors one of their worst loss of the season, behind RJ Barrett’s 37 points game. This is the 4th game of Barrett as a Raptor, who are 3 – 4, since trading OG Anunoby to the Knicks to get RJ Barrett, last Dec. 31st.

This is basically how the game was; the Raptors made 15 of their 33 three-points shot, lead by RJ Barrett, who made 5 of his 8 threes, despite having a great game from Klay Thompson with his 25 points, the Warriors are 14 for 46 from behind the arc with Steph is 0 of 9 from the three-point line, scoring only for 9 points. All Warriors starters are negative in the +/- column.

Aside from Barrett, Chris Boucher scored 17 points and 9 rebounds from the bench, with Pascal Siakam adding 16 points with 6 rebounds and 6 assists. The Raptors were never threaten in the game and at one point, their lead ballooned to 27 points.

Here are highlights of RJ Barrett;

Raptors will be visiting the Lakers on Tuesday night, while the Warriors will be hosting the NO Pelicans on Wednesday night.

NBA reinstate Draymond Green are being suspended for 12 games

January 7, 2024

Golden State Warriors veteran Draymond Green have been reinstated by the NBA after being suspended for 12 games. The announcement was made from the league’s PR account (NBA Communications.

Last 14th December, Draymond Green was “suspended indefinitely for striking Phoenix Suns center Jusuf Nurkiฤ‡ in the face”, prior to the suspension, Green already received a 5-game suspension for “headlocking” Minnesota center Rudy Gobert.

Green can be back in the lineup during their Toronto game this Sunday but according to NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski, he will “need approximately a week to ramp up for a game return.”

The Golden State Warriors are 7-5 without Green and it’s been a rollercoaster ride for the team considering he is the leading defensive and facilitator of the team. The reinstatement of Green is a welcoming news for the Warriors as well as its fans, as we approach the half-way mark of the season and a chance of Golden State to make a run for the playoffs.

Steph’s 36 points powers the Warriors win over Magic (121-115)

January 3, 2024

After three straight losses, the Golden State Warriors got a timely win from the Orlando Magic before they face the defending champs, the Denver Nugget, in a rematch for their Christmas day Matchup.

It was a close game until the last 4 minutes of the game, no team has lead for more than 10 points in the game, until Steph took over late in the game. Curry scored and helped the Warrior score 13-straight-points in a span of four minutes late in the game to secure the win for the Dubs. Steph Curry lead the team in scoring with 36 points, 6 assists and 4 steals. Jonathan Kuminga added 19 points, with his 6 rebs and 4 assists, Klay Thompson chipped-in 15 points, 3 of which are from beyond the arc.

Sophomore Paolo Banchero lead the Magics with 27 points, 12 rebounds and 6 assists, while Franz Wagner added 25 points and Goga Bitadze with his 13 points.

The Warriors will host the Denver Nuggets on Thursday, 4th of Jan, while the Magic will go to Sacramento on Wednesday, 3rd Jan.

Dwight Howard Signs with Philippines’ Strong Group for the Dubai International Basketball Championship

January 3, 2024

Eight-time NBA All-Star Dwight Howard plans to sign with Strong Group Philippines for the duration of the Dubai International Basketball Championship, which is schedule from 19th January through 28th January in the United Arab Emirates. This is according to Shams Charania of The Athletic and Stadium.

The news was confirmed in a tweet by Strong Group’s official social media account;

Together with Dwight Howard, he will join other former-NBA player Andre Roberson, Andray Blatche and PBA Import of TNT Tropang Giga McKenzie Moore.

Last year, his failed attempt for an NBA come back even after working out with the Golden State Warriors, Howard signed with the Taoyuan Leopards in Taiwan’s T1 League, he finished the season with 23.2 PPG, 16.2 REB and 1.2 BLK.

Stephen Curry scores 33 points, to carry the Warriors over Celtics in OT (132-126 )

December 20, 2023

Steph Curry even with 5-personal fouls and being targeted by the Boston offense, he played the entirety of the 4th qtr and OT, in those 17 mins, he scored a total of 20 points, on his way to scoring 33 points with 6 assists and helped the Warriors overcome a 17-point deficit middle of the 3rd qtr.

Klay Thompson, the other half of the Splash Brothers, scored 24 points with 4 rebounds and 4 assists, he also hit a timely three-point to tie the game with 2:18 remaining in regulation. Jonathan Kuminga also made a number of hustle plays to give the Warriors the lead in OT. Boston on the other hand couldn’t make any basket even if the Warriors gifted them 3 offensive rebounds and four shots at the end of the 4th qtr.

Warriors rookie guard Brandin Podziemski left the game in the second half due to a strained lower back and did not return to the game. Andrew Wiggins and Chris Paul were able to play off the bench, Paul scoring 9 points but was instrumental in the Warriors run after making 7 consecutive points, late in the 3rd, he finished with a team high 12 assists and 7 rebds. Rookie Trayce Jackson Davis also played big making the most of the playing time that Coach Steve Kerr is giving him. Jackson-Davis finished with 10 pts, team high 13 rebounds and 3 blocks.

Boston Celtics have multiple opportunities to secure the game but could not make any bucket; missing 4 shots by the end of regulation that could have given them the lead and key plays in the final minutes of OT.

Boston starters are all in double-figures, with Derrick White scoring a team high of 30 points, making 7-of-18 from beyond the arc, he also grabbed 7 rebounds. Followed by Jalen Brown’s 28 points, 8 rebs and 7 assists, while Jason Tatum added 15 points, 8 rebs and 7 assists.

Warriors will improved their standings to 13-14, a game behind the Suns for the 10th place in the West, while the Celtics will fall 20-6, still the number 1 team in the East and 2nd in the league.

Boston will go to Sacramento on Wednesday night, while the Warriors will host Washington on Friday night, while will be Jordan Poole’s first game back to the Chase Center after being traded to the Wizards in the off season.