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Posts tagged as “Sports”

Golden State Warriors defeat Pelicans to avoid play-in tournament (109 – 120)

In a Western Conference were every game is important, the Golden State Warrior just got another win to climbed up to the 6th place and out of the play-in tournament. They defeated the New Orleans Pelican (109 – 120) by rallying from 20-down.

It was a close game in the first quarter where both teams are just exchanging baskets, then in the 2nd qtr, the Pelicans were able to build a 20-point lead by the end of the 1st half (63-43). Five Pelican players have 2-digits points led by Brandon Ingram with 26 points, eight rebounds and seven assists, then Trey Murphy III who scored 21 points and CJ McCollum contributed 15 points. The lost snapped NO Pelicans five-game winning streak.

Warriors started their comeback in the 3rd qtr, scoring 29 points and holding the Pelicans to just 26 points. At the start of the 4th qtr, GSW where only down by 4-points (89-85) and the momentum was on their side as they overtake the Pelicans midway through the 4th qtr. At the last 2-min mark of the game, the Warriors was able to built a 12 point lead securing the win. The Golden State comeback was lead by Steph Curry who was flirting with a triple-double; 39 points with eight 3-pointers, 8 rebounds and 8assists, followed by Jordan Poole contributing 21 points, Klay Thompson scored 17, hitting five three-pointers. Draymond Green only scored 8 points but was a big factor in their comeback by dishing 13 assists, 6 reb and 2 steals in 33-minutes.

The win will help Golden State Warrior avoid being in the play-in tournament, which is a very dangerous position to be in.

The New Orleans Pelicans will visit Denver on Thursday night, while the Golden State Warriors will host the Spurs on Friday night, which is one of the remaining home game.

SBP submits Gilas pool for the 5×5 and 3×3 SEA Games to POC

Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) just submitted the lists of players for 5×5 basketball as well as the 3×3 basketball for the 32nd Southeast Asian Games to the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC).

The 5×5 Team

The 28-man pool for the Men’s basketball is lead by six-time PBA Most Valuable Player June Mar Fajardo and naturalized Filipino Justin Brownlee, the team will be looking to regain its basketball dominance in the region after they lost to the Indonesians, the eventual gold medalist of the 31st Southeast Asian Games in Hanoi last year. The head coach will still be Chot Reyes, together with Fajardo and Pogoy, are part of the basketball contingent of last year’s 31st Southeast Asian Games.

The 28-man pool for the 5×5 mens basketball are the following;

  • June Mar Fajardo
  • Justin Brownlee
  • CJ Perez
  • Chris Ross
  • Marcio Lassiter
  • Japeth Aguilar
  • Earl Scottie Thompson
  • Jamie Malonzo
  • Christian Standhardiger
  • Stanley Pringle Jr.
  • Roger Pogoy
  • Calvin John Oftana
  • John Paul Erram
  • Michael Williams
  • Chris Newsome
  • Raymond Almazan
  • Norman Aaron Black
  • Arvin Tolentino
  • Kevin Louie Alas
  • Brandon Rosser
  • Deschon Winston
  • Karl Kevin Quiambao
  • Jerom Lastimosa
  • Mason Francis Amos
  • Benjamin Phillips III
  • Ariel John Edu
  • Michael Phillips
  • Jeremiah Gray

As for the women’s basketball team, they are looking to keep their dominance in the region under leadership of coach Pat Aquino. This year, the team are looking a three-peat in the SEA Games.

The 25-woman pool for the 5×5 womens basketball are;

  • Jack Danielle Animam
  • Afril Bernardino
  • Stefanie Ann Berberabe
  • Mikka Cacho
  • Clare Castro
  • France Mae Cabinbin
  • Ana Alicia Katrina Castillo
  • Camille Izabel Clarin
  • Monique Allison Del Carmen
  • Ella Patrice Fajardo
  • Katrina Guytingco
  • Marizze Andrea Tongco
  • Janine Pontejos
  • Angelica Marie Surada
  • Quinn Kacey Dela Rosa
  • Mai Loni Lashae’ Henson
  • Louna Ozar
  • Kristine Cayabyab
  • Aurea Day Marie Gingras
  • Kristan Geyl Yumul
  • Kennan Elizabeth Ka
  • Katelyn Bobadilla
  • Karl Ann Pingol
  • Sofia Isabella Roman
  • Jhazmin Joson

The 3×3 Team

The list of men and women 3×3 teams have also been submitted to the POC.

Coached by Lester Andrew del Rosario, men’s 3×3 squad are as follows; Almond Vosotros, Rodel Samboy De Leon, Brandon Matthew Bates, Jorey Napoles, Lervin Flores, Joseph Emmanuel Eriobu, Jeffrey Manday, Alfred Ryan Batino, Kakou Ange Frank Kouame, and Joseph Sedurifa.

As for the women’s 3×3 squad, which will be lead by coach Pat Aquino are; Jack Danielle Animam, Afril Bernardino, Ana Alicia Katrina Castillo, Quinn Kacey Dela Rosa, Janine Pontejos, Clare Castro, Kristine Cayabyab, and Mai Loni Leshae’ Henson. The 3×3 women’s team took home the gold medal in the 2019 SEA games held in Manila.

Source:

Michael Jordan’s Six NBA Championship Shoes are now on sale at Sotheby’s

Michael Jordan’s Six NBA Championship Shoes or popularly known as the “Dynasty Collection” are now on sale by Sotheby’s. The Dynasty Collection is composed of the six individual shoes worn and autographed by Michael Jordan on the night the Chicago Bulls captured each of the franchise’s six championships.

MJ’s six championship shoes consists of an “Infrared” Air Jordan 6 (1991), a “Charcoal” Air Jordan 7 (1992), a “Playoffs” Air Jordan 8 (1993), a “Bred” Air Jordan 11 (1996), a “Playoffs” Air Jordan 12 (1997) and a “Last Shot” Air Jordan 14 (1998). Truly the rarest collection of Air Jordans ever.

According to Mark Salzberg, chairman of the Certified Collectibles Group, the rarest collection of Air Jordans ever and “contemporary Ruby red slippers, only rarer.”

Sotheby’s is offering the Dynasty Collection via private sale and not in an auction, which means anyone could purchase the collection at any time upon the agreement between the seller and buyer. It is projected that figures could reach into the hundreds of millions.

You can read more about the “Dynasty Collection” in an article by Sotheby’s – The Dynasty Collection: The Complete Set of Michael Jordan’s ‘Air Jordan’ Six Championship Sneakers.

Source: Andscape

Memphis Grizzlies’ Ja Morant in hot waters after flashing a gun in one of his IG live

Memphis Grizzlies All-Star guard Ja Morant is in hot waters after flashing a gun on in one of his Instagram Live Video. In an article by ClutchPoints, Morant posted an IG live early Saturday morning, he and his friends appeared to be in a nightclub when he flashed on what appeared to be a gun. The video have been taken down and social media accounts of Ja Morant are now inaccessible to the public.

Morant through his agent Jim Tanner released a statement; “I take full responsibility for my actions last night. I’m sorry to my family, teammates, coaches, fans, partners, the city of Memphis and the entire Grizzlies organization for letting you down,” it read. “I’m going to take some time away to get help and work on learning better methods of dealing with stress and my overall well-being.”

NBA is also investigating the incident and released the following statement via NBA spokesman Mike Bass.

Morant’s team also released their own statement stating that Morant will miss two games; Sunday against the LA Clippers and/or Tuesday against the Los Angeles Lakers;

The IG video is just one of the current issue that Ja Morant is facing, including the Washington Post report detailing Morant’s involvement in punching and threatening a teenager. The other incident was a confrontation with a mall security guard in a parking lot, as well as the red laser pointer incident with members of the Pacers last February 5.

Golden State Warriors rally from 23-down to beat the Portland Trail Blazers

Golden State Warriors just won on what could be a start of a run by beating the Portland Trail Blazers, after being down by 23 points in the first half. Led by Jordan Poole’s 29 points, six assists and five rebounds, and Klay Thompson’s 23 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assist and a steal. The Warriors also survived a hot-start by Lillard, contributing 25 points and seven assists, after scoring a franchise record of 71 points in the previous game against the Rockets.

Warriors made their comeback in the 3rd quarter after holding the Blazers to just 17 points in the quarter and at the same time making 39-points. Their 3rd quarter run was energized by Jonathan Kuminga’s high-flying one-handed dunk from the middle lane.

Draymond Green returned from a two-game absence with a bruised right knee, Andrew Wiggins still out due to family issued, while Steph Curry is expected to return this Thursday, against the Clippers after working out with Santa Cruz Warriors in G League.

Six Warriors players scored in the double-digits and the team are 40% from the three-point line. Steve Keer said during the post game press conference “It just feels like we’re coming together. Like there’s some chemistry. Some energy that’s forming,” which is a good sign, since the team have bene struggling the whole season.

Warriors will host the Clippers on Thursday night, while the Blazers will face New Orleans this Wednesday evening to complete their road-home back-to-back.

Jordan Brand announces Jayson Tatum’s First Signature Shoe – the Tatum 1

Jordan Brand just announced the first signature shoes of Boston forward Jason Tatum – the Tatum 1. In their official announcement, the Tatum 1 is the lightest performance shoe in Jordan Brand’s performance line this season.

The Tatum 1 is built out of a lightweight, strong TPU frame, the shoe is wrapped by a ground-contact foam that also acts as an integrated traction pattern, with minimal rubber on the toe and ball of the foot for Tatum’s predominantly forefoot game. This detail allowed designers to cut back on the weight of the shoe while also providing tight court feel. A large, uncaged Zoom Air bag in the forefoot helps provide high energy return without sacrificing court feel. The mesh knit upper is strong yet lightweight, while the collar is padded for ankle support.

The Zoo Colorway Zoom Air Sole
The Zoo Colorway TPU frame
The Zoo Colorway Mesh Finish
The Zoo Colorway
The St. Louis Colorway
The Pink Lemonade Colorway
The Barbershop Colorway

The shoe will also include as an apparel collection; hoodies and tees for men, women and kids, inspired by the Zoo and Barbershop colorways of the Tatum 1. The Tatum 1 will be available at Nike.com and at select Jordan retailers for $120, this 7th of April in full family sizing.

Jason Tatum wore the Tatum 1s at the 2023 NBA All Star Games, he was later named the 2023 Kobe Bryant All-Star MVP and scored a new All-Star record 55 points.

Source: Nike

Team Giannis wins the 2023 NBA All Star Game led by Jayson Tatum’s 55 points

It looks like Lebron will now be 5-1 in the 2023 NBA All Star when chosen as a team captain, since Team Giannis just handed Lebron his first L, since NBA change the format in 2018. It was not Giannis who led the game but instead it was Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics as he scores All-Star record 55 points and taking home the 2023 Kobe Bryant All-Star MVP trophy. The previous All-Star record was by Anthony Davis after scoring 52 points in 2017.

It was not all Tatum, since teammate Damian Lillard and Donovan Mitchell contributed as well, contributing 26 points and 40 points respectively. On Team Lebron, Joel Embid, Kyrie Irving and Jaylen Brown are the biggest contributors. Embid and Irving both scored 32 points, while Brown had 35 points.

Checkout the game highlights of the top scorer of this years 2023 NBA All Star Game;

Jayson Tatum – 55 Points

Damian Lillard – 26 points

Donovan Mitchel – 40 points

Joel Embid – 32 Points

Kyrie Irving – 32 points

Jaylen Brown – 35 Points

Because of injury, team captains of each team have to leave the game early; Lebron James for his right hand contusion and just played for 14 minutes, while Giannis Antetokounmpo injured his sprained right wrist and played for just 20 seconds before leaving the game.

It’s unclear if NBA will still use the “playground style” next year but not knowing who will be in the team sure made the game much more exciting. The 2024 NBA All Star will be in Indianapolis.

Result of the 2023 NBA All Star Draft

Literally hours before the 2023 NBA All Star Game, Team Caption Lebron James and Giannis Antetokounmpo drafted their players from the pool of players, first it was for the reserves then the starters.

Giannis Antetokounmpo got the privileges to choose the #1 draft and decided to take Damian Lillard of the Portland Trail Blazers, then his teammate Jrue Holiday. Lebron on the other hand drafted Anthony Edwards first followed by Jaylen Brown. The player to be drafted was Lauri Markkanen, Jazz and played for Team Giannis.

To provide more drama, NBA decided adopt a playground style for the game and make the NBA All Star Draft just before the actual All Star Game.

Here is the draft result for each team;

TEAM LEBRON

** In order

Reserves

  • Anthony Edwards, Timberwolves
  • Jaylen Brown, Celtics
  • Paul George, Clippers
  • Tyrese Haliburton, Pacers
  • Julius Randle, Knicks
  • De’Aaron Fox, Kings
  • Jaren Jackson Jr., Grizzlies

Starters

  • Joel Embiid, 76ers
  • Kyrie Irving, Mavericks
  • Luka Doncic, Mavericks
  • Nikola Jokic, Nuggets

TEAM GIANNIS

** In order

Reserves

  • Damian Lillard, Trail Blazers
  • Jrue Holiday, Bucks
  • Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Thunder
  • DeMar DeRozan, Bulls
  • Pascal Siakam, Raptors
  • Bam Adebayo, Heat
  • Domantas Sabonis, Kings

Starters

  • Jayson Tatum, Celtics
  • Ja Morant, Grizzlies
  • Donovan Mitchell, Cavaliers
  • Lauri Markkanen, Jazz

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.

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

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 Dončić (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 Jokić (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

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

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.

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 — three frontcourt players and two guards from each conference — 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)

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

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;
– 2× 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)

Former Senator Manny Pacquiao signs with Japan’s Rizin Fighting Federation

After his stint as a public servant and an exhibition game with DK Yoo, Manny Pacquiao appears to be doing more just sign with Japan-based Rizin Fighting Federation for more exhibition fight in 2023.

After a successful fight with DK Yoo in Goyang, S. Korea, Manny Pacquiao signs with Rizin Fighting Federation for a one-fight deal in Japan. Pacquiao made the announcement during Rizin’s New Year’s Eve card at Saitama Super Arena outside Tokyo.

Rizin Fighting Federation primarily promotes MMA, Kickboxing and boxing fight and the company is the one who helped Floyd Mayweather Jr. with his past two exhibition fights in Japan. Rizin and Pacquiao are targeting summertime in Japan for his fight and depending on the outcome, he has plans to keep active in the exhibition scene for the rest of 2023.

Source: ESPN, Bloody Elbow.

It’s a done deal – Cristiano Ronaldo signs with Saudi Al-Nassr

It’s a done deal, Cristiano Ronaldo is now a Saudi Al-Nassr player and the holder of the richest contract in football history. Saudi Al-Nassr just confirmed the transfer of Portuguese Superstar Cristiano Ronaldo to Saudi Al-Nassr FC.

AlNassr FC announced the signing on their twitter account with a photo Cristiano Ronaldo with Saudi Al-Nassr Chairman of the Board Mr. Musli Al Muammar. Saudi Al Nassr did not provide any details on the financial value of the contact but it is reported to value north of $1.2 billion, where Ronaldo will suit-up as a player for 2.5 years and in an ambassadorial role as Saudi Arabia bid to organize the World Cup in 2030.

In their official announcement, Saudi Al-Nassr said that “the deal is more than just writing a new historical chapter. This player (Cristiano Ronaldo) is a great example for all athletes and youth, with his presence in Al-Nassr, we will move forward to achieve most successfor the Saudi club and sports, and for future generations.

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;

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

“I’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 “Nike 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.

Football Superstar Cristiano Ronaldo to signup with Saudi Al Nassr for $217 million-per-year

Cristiano Ronaldo is about to sign the richest contract in football history. In an article by Spanish sport daily newspaper MARCA, Ronaldo is set to sign with Saudi Al Nassr for $217 million-per-year contract and an estimate of $1.28 billion for the duration of the whole contract, where 2.5 years as a player for Al-Nassr FC and the rest in an ambassadorial role as Saudi Arabia bid to organize the World Cup in 2030.

Before the Qatar Word Cup 2022, it was expected that Europe’s Champions League will be lining up to sign Ronaldo but it appears that Saudi Al-Nassr FC is the one who showed more interest. The full details of the Sadui Al Nassr contract is still unknown but the financial size of the whole contract will make Cristiano Ronaldo the richest Athlete in football history.

Sources: Saudi Gazette, Marca, Marca
Image: @cristiano

NBA unveil redesigned individual awards trophies and named after NBA Legends

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 “Mr. 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.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to celebrate the league’s best defensive player each year,” said Olajuwon. “Great 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.

Saudi Arabia beats Messi’s Argentina (2 – 1), one of the biggest upset in World Cup History

In what can be considered as one of the biggest upset in World Cup History, Saudi Arabia beats Argentina, 2 – 1, this is the first time a team in the Arab country has beaten Argentina in the FIFA World Cup.

It was all Argentina in the 1st half of the game, where Messi scoring the one and only goal of Argentina via penalty kick. Then in the second half, the Saudi’s lead by Saleh Al-Shehri and Salem Al-Dawsari, both scored in a span of five minutes to secure Saudi’s first win the tournament.

Saudi Arabia now leads Group C that includes Mexico, Poland and Argentina. Their next game will be against Poland this 26th of November, then Mexico on the 30th of November. Teams in each group are playing one another in a round-robin, with the top two teams advancing to the knockout stage. While Argentina will face Mexico on November 26th and then Poland on November 30th.

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 🇵🇭 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

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 “Feel 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 💍

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

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 “Linsanity” 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’

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)

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

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.

Warriors defeats Mavericks (126-117) in a come from behind win to to take Game 2 of the Western Conference Finals

Golden State Warriors secured their homecourt by taking game 2 of the Western Conference Finals. It was a classic third quarter game by the Warriors by erasing a 19-pt lead by the Mavs and reducing it to just 2-pts entering the 4th quarters.

The Golden State 3rd quarter run was fueled by Kevon Looney’s 20-points games, which also includes 12 rebounds and 2 assists. Otto Porter Jr. and Jordan Poole helped swing the momentum by contributing 11-points and 23-points, respectively.

Just like in game 1, all of Golden States’ starters scored double-digits points; Curry (32); Thompson (15); Wiggins (16); Looney (21); Porter Jr. (11) and Poole (23).

Compare to game 1; Mavs played a much better game getting a 42-points game from Luka Doncic and a 31-points contribution from Jalen Brunson. As a team, Mavs made 46.7% (21-45) of their shot from beyond the arc, but in the 3rd qtr, the team only made 2 of their 13-shot in the 3-point area.

Game 3 will in Dallas, where they’ve been playing great in the past two series.