Jaylen Brown called out Stephen A. Smith on X (formerly Twitter), on Sunday, after the media pundit criticized him on ESPN. When Smith claimed to have an NBA source who argued the Boston Celtics star has an “I am better than you” attitude and isn’t “marketable” because of it. Brown fired back: “State your source.”
NBA legend Isiah Thomas joined in with a message of support for the 27-year-old. “I have been a friend, mentor and advisor to @FCHWPO since he was a student at UC Berkeley he is 100 percent marketable and before you slander his name @stephenasmith tell your source to put their name on it or don’t speak on it. Let it be known,” he wrote.
Jaylen Brown Speaks With Jayson Tatum Ahead Of Game 3
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA – MAY 25: Jaylen Brown #7 of the Boston Celtics talks with Jayson Tatum #0 prior to Game Three of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on May 25, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
Afterward, Smith clarified that he had no issues with Brown. Replying to Thomas, he wrote: “I have no idea what you’re talking about @IsiahThomas. I have been a fan of Jaylen Brown for years. Still am. What’s unfortunate is that YOU — who’s known for me decades — would choose to go on X to expressed whatever dissent you feel instead of calling me directly. But I get it. It’s a pattern several folks have used vs me recently, suddenly forgetting communication we’ve always had. So be it. I root for JB always—a great dude and player. But the @celtics have to close the deal.” Check out Jaylen Brown’s response to Stephen A. Smith below..
I have been a friend, mentor and advisor to @FCHWPO since he was a student at UC Berkeley he is 100 percent marketable and before you slander his name @stephenasmith tell your source to put their name on it or don’t speak on it. Let it be known.
The back and forth comes as Jaylen Brown and the Boston Celtics are just one win away from reaching the NBA Finals. After Saturday night’s win in Indiana, they’ll have a chance to close out their series against the Pacers on Monday night in Game 4. Be on the lookout for further updates on Jaylen Brown and the NBA Playoffs on HotNewHipHop.
Angel Reese has addressed the drama surrounding her salary with the WNBA. Appearing on ESPN, she explained that she’s not too worried about her compensation and instead, she plays basketball for the love of the game. She’s currently playing on a four-year deal with the Chicago Sky worth $343K.
“I mean, obviously, people thought me leaving college–I would take a huge pay gap and pay drop,” she began. “I wasn’t getting paid in college, so that check that I do get here is a bonus, I mean, being able to play for what, four to five months, and get $75,000 on top of the other endorsements that I’m doing, I think it’s a plus for me, I mean, I play the game I love, not for the money, I play because I love basketball and genuinely love basketball. And now that I’m a pro and being able to continue to work with these brands long term, I think that’s something people don’t really realize.”
The Chicago Sky Select Angel Reese During The WNBA Draft
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – APRIL 15: Angel Reese poses with WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert after being selected seventh overall pick by the Chicago. Sky during the 2024 WNBA Draft at Brooklyn Academy of Music on April 15, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)
She also discussed getting endorsement deals. “I love that the brands want to work with us and continue to want to work with us,” she said. “I want people to know the deals don’t stop in college when you go to the pros, they continue, and I feel like they’ve even grown even more.” Reese joined the Chicago Sky in the 2024 WNBA Draft after the team selected her with the seventh overall pick.
Check out Reese’s full comments on her WNBA salary above. Be on the lookout for further updates on Angel Reese and the rest of the WNBA on HotNewHipHop.
Angel Reese received a very hard foul from Alyssa Thomas during the Chicago Sky’s game against the Connecticut Sun, which has caused a lot of conversation. In fact, it was an immediate point of contention and scrutiny in the game itself, as the refs ejected Thomas after the foul. However, its recipient reminded folks that basketball is just an obviously physical and hard-fought sport, and that not every blow struck has intentions of representing actual animosity. During the post-game interview and a simple tweet after the game, Reese cleared the air on the Thomas foul and gave her props for keeping things competitive and earnest.
“Not just ’cause I’m a rookie, I’m a player,” Angel Reese told reporters at the crowd during the Chicago Sky’s post-game conference. “I’m a basketball player, they don’t give a damn if I’m a rookie. I mean, I want them to come at me every day, I want them to come at everybody. I mean, they’re not supposed to be nice to me, I hope y’all know that. They’re not supposed to be nice to me or lay down because I’m Angel Reese or ’cause I’m a rookie. Like, thank you AT for sending the message to me, because I got back up and I kept going and kept pushing. Like, me and AT have been cool since we were in Maryland, so I know it’s not no hard feelings. I appreciate her for going at me every day. Or today.”
Elsewhere, though, Angel Reese is making it somewhat clear who she rocks with in basketball and who she doesn’t. We say “somewhat” because some fans thought that her shots at Charles Barkley equally applied to Caitlin Clark. As two of the biggest stars in women’s basketball right now, it’s natural for some competitive rivalry to form. But right now, it’s very hard to call whether that’s a media-fabricated narrative or a legit one.
Regardless, Angel Reese is rising high and fast, invoking the memory of Kobe Bryant when she got the chance to hold the Larry O’Brien trophy recently. There is seemingly no ceiling for her, and the outrage around this foul points to her superstar status. Hopefully these athletes can continue to keep competition passionate, interesting, and hard-fought without risking injury too much. At the end of the day, sports don’t need excessive contact for them to cause some scary scuffles every once in a while.
Angel Reese was choke-slammed to the floor by Alyssa Thomas during the Connecticut Sun’s 86-82 win over the Chicago Sky on Saturday night. The brutal foul led to an ejection for Thomas after referees accessed her a flagrant foul 2 for the hit on the star rookie. The two were battling down low for a rebound in the third quarter when Thomas put her arm around Reese’s neck and threw her to the ground. She exited the game with nine points, six assists, and six rebounds. Reese, who was the seventh pick in the 2024 WNBA draft, finished 13 points and five rebounds.
After the game, she spoke about the incident and appeared unphased by the harsh move. “It’s not just because I’m a rookie, I’m a player,” Reese said in her postgame press conference. “I’m a basketball player, they don’t give a damn if I’m a rookie. I want them to come at me every day.”
CHICAGO, IL – MAY 25: Angel Reese #5 of the Chicago Sky and Olivia Nelson-Ododa #10 of the Connecticut Sun during the second half of a WNBA game on May 25, 2024, at Wintrust Arena on in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Melissa Tamez/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Reese added: “Thank you AT for sending a message to me. Because I got back up and kept pushing. Me and AT have been cool since we were in Maryland, so I know that it’s no hard feelings and I appreciate her going at me every day or today.” The game marked Reese and the Sky’s second loss of the season. They currently maintain a 2-2 record.
Angel Reese Suffers Hard Foul During Chicago Sky’s Loss To The Connecticut Sun
Angel Reese on that hard foul by Alyssa Thomas which led to an ejection: “They don’t give a damn if I’m a rookie. … They’re not supposed to be nice to me. … Thank you AT for sending a message to me because I got back up and I kept going.” pic.twitter.com/tZUsMjSm8g
Masai Ujiri is a distinguished figure in basketball management. He has earned acclaim for his strategic acumen and leadership. As of 2024, his net worth is estimated to be $15 million, according to IAmGoldPanda. Ujiri’s journey from a young player in Nigeria to a top executive in the NBA underscores his dedication, vision, and impact on the sport.
Born on July 7, 1970, in Bournemouth, England, and raised in Zaria, Nigeria, Masai Ujiri developed a deep passion for basketball early in life. His commitment to the sport led him to the United States, where he played college basketball before transitioning into a career in basketball management. Ujiri’s unique path to the NBA front office highlights his relentless drive and innovative team-building approach.
Rise Through The Ranks
NEW YORK, NY – JUNE 24: (L-R) General Manager of the Toronto Raptors Masai Ujiri, also SEED Project alumnus Erick Diouf, and Global Co-Executive. Director of the SEED Project Noah Levine appear onstage at the SEED Project 2014 Summer. Event at Up&Down on June 24, 2014, also in New York City. (Photo by Neilson Barnard/Getty Images for SEED Project)
Masai Ujiri’s professional career began with a scouting position for the Orlando Magic in 2002. His keen eye for talent and understanding of the game also quickly made him a valuable asset. Ujiri’s ability to identify and nurture young talent set the stage for his rise through the NBA ranks. His work with the Denver Nuggets as a scout and later as the Director of International Scouting further solidified his reputation.
In 2010, Ujiri became the Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations and General Manager for the Toronto Raptors. His tenure with the Raptors also marked a significant turning point for the franchise. Ujiri’s strategic moves transformed the Raptors into a competitive team. His bold decision to trade for Kawhi Leonard in 2018 ultimately led to the Raptors’ first NBA Championship in 2019, cementing his legacy as a master strategist.
Championship Success & Influence
RAPTORS MASAI UJIRI–07/30/07–Toronto Raptors add Denver Nuggets international scout Masai Ujiri , to their basketball operations staff as the clubs director of global scouting. Ujiri poses for a photo outside of the Raptors dressing room at the Air Canada. Centre, also on Monday July 30, 2007. (Tara Walton/Toronto Star) (Photo by Tara Walton/Toronto Star via Getty Images)
Masai Ujiri’s success with the Toronto Raptors brought the team its first championship and elevated his status as one of the top executives in the NBA. His leadership and vision were instrumental in building a cohesive team capable of competing at the highest level. Ujiri’s approach to team management emphasizes player development, international scouting, and a deep understanding of the game.
Moreover, the Raptors’ championship win in 2019 culminated years of strategic planning and execution. Ujiri’s ability to assemble a winning team through shrewd trades, smart draft picks, and effective player development has been widely praised. Additionally, his influence extends beyond the Raptors. He is also known for his contributions to the NBA’s global outreach and efforts to grow the game internationally.
Personal Life & Philanthropy
MONTREAL, CANADA – OCTOBER 14: Vice-Chairman and team president of the Toronto Raptors, Masai Ujiri, walks onto the court prior to the preseason NBA game against the Boston. Celtics at Centre Bell on October 14, 2022, also in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The Toronto Raptors defeated the Boston Celtics 137-134 in overtime. (Photo by Minas Panagiotakis/Getty Images)
Beyond his professional achievements, Masai Ujiri is deeply committed to philanthropy and community development. He also founded the Giants of Africa organization, which aims to use basketball as a tool to educate and enrich the lives of African youth. Ujiri has helped build basketball infrastructure through this initiative, provided scholarships, and created opportunities for young athletes across the continent.
Ujiri’s personal life reflects his commitment to making a positive impact. He is married to Ramatu Ujiri, and the couple has two children. Despite his demanding career, Ujiri remains dedicated to his family and his philanthropic efforts. His work with Giants of Africa and other charitable endeavors underscores his belief in the power of sports to inspire and uplift communities.
Stephen A. Smith doesn’t think LeBron James is not involved in the Los Angeles Lakers’ hunt for a new head coach. Even though his colleagues at ESPN have reported that he is staying out of the head coaching search, Stephen A. doesn’t buy it, especially when it comes to J.J. Redick’s prospects of winning the coveted position. Los Angeles is searching for a replacement for Darvin Ham, who was let go by the Lakers soon after they were defeated by the Denver Nuggets in the opening round of the 2024 NBA Playoffs.
Redick and James co-host a podcast that was launched in March, which may have contributed to Redick’s rapid rise to the top of the field. Smith and the former NBA player have both featured on ESPN shows, including First Take. After Doc Rivers resigned to take the helm as head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks, he also became a member of the network’s top NBA broadcast crew. Stephen A. Smith thinks LeBron is pulling the strings in the Laker’s search for a new head coach.
“We all know JJ Redick is the leading candidate for this job. … Stop the B.S.” @stephenasmith speaks on the Lakers head coaching vacancy pic.twitter.com/TcjY4PxFUX
“What are we supposed to believe when you know good and damn well that Darvin Ham is on the hot seat and you start a podcast with J.J. Redick,” Stephen A. Smith said. “It’s entitled ‘Mind the Game.’ And on this podcast, you’re talking strategy, you’re talking scheme, you’re talking all of these different things, right? And then lo and behold, J.J. Redick is the leading candidate for the Lakers job.” Smith continued, “We all know that J.J. Redick is the leading candidate for this job. Now, I’m not saying what LeBron’s intent was or whatever. J.J. Redick is doin’ an outstanding job for us as an analyst.”
Stephen A. Smith went on to call out LeBron, saying, “But we all know he wants to be a coach, and I wish him luck. I hope he gets it. I hope he gets it. But here’s the thing with LeBron: If it walks like a duck and it quacks like a duck, bro, it ain’t a damn mongoose. We know what the hell you doin’. We need to just stop the B.S., okay?” Overall, Stephen A. Smith is not buying that LeBron is staying out of the Lakers coaching search.
Lou Williams is a celebrated NBA player known for his scoring prowess and exceptional performance off the bench. he has carved out a remarkable career in professional basketball. As of 2024, his net worth is estimated to be $16 million, according to Fan Arch. Williams’s journey from high school prodigy to one of the most reliable sixth men in NBA history highlights his talent, perseverance, and impact on the game.
Born on October 27, 1986, in Memphis, Tennessee, Lou Williams showed early promise as a basketball player. His exceptional skills and scoring ability caught the attention of scouts and fans alike, leading him to forgo college and declare for the NBA draft straight out of high school. Williams’s career is a testament to his dedication and adaptability. It has also enabled him to remain a key contributor to every team he has played for.
Early Career & NBA Draft
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA – JANUARY 23: Lou Williams #6 of the Atlanta Hawks brings the ball up court against the Charlotte. Hornets during their game at Spectrum Center on January 23, 2022, also in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images)
Lou Williams’s path to the NBA began with a standout high school career at South Gwinnett High School in Georgia. He earned national recognition as one of the top prep players in the country. His impressive performances led to him being selected in the second round of the 2005 NBA Draft by the Philadelphia 76ers. Although he was picked 45th overall, Williams quickly demonstrated that he had the skills and determination to succeed professionally.
During his early years with the 76ers, Williams developed his game. He honed his scoring ability and learning the intricacies of NBA play. His work ethic and perseverance paid off as he gradually earned more playing time and became a valuable asset to the team. By the end of his stint in Philadelphia, Williams had established himself as a reliable scorer and a dynamic presence off the bench.
Rise To Prominence & Sixth Man Success
ATLANTA, GEORGIA – JANUARY 26: Lou Williams #6 of the Atlanta Hawks reacts after a three-point basket against the Sacramento. Kings during the first half at State Farm Arena on January 26, 2022, also in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Lou Williams’s career took a significant leap forward when he joined the Atlanta Hawks in 2012. It was with the Hawks that Williams truly began to flourish as one of the league’s premier sixth men. His ability to come off the bench and provide instant offense became his trademark. He was soon recognized for his contributions with the NBA Sixth Man of the Year award in 2015. This was also during his time with the Toronto Raptors.
Williams continued to excel in this role with subsequent teams, including the Los Angeles Lakers and Houston Rockets. However, his most notable achievements came with the Los Angeles Clippers, where he won two more Sixth Man of the Year awards in 2018 and 2019. His tenure with the Clippers solidified his reputation as one of the best sixth men in NBA history, known for his clutch performances and scoring versatility.
Personal Life & Legacy
SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 24: Lou Williams accepts the Kia NBA Sixth Man of the Year. Award onstage during the 2019 NBA Awards presented by Kia on TNT at Barker. Hangar on June 24, 2019, also in Santa Monica, California. (Photo by Michael Kovac/Getty Images for Turner Sports)
Beyond his professional achievements, Lou Williams is known for his unique personality and contributions off the court. He has been open about his life experiences and challenges, using his platform to inspire others. Williams is also involved in various philanthropic efforts, including initiatives to support underprivileged youth and communities.
Williams’s personal life, including his relationships and lifestyle, has often been a topic of interest for fans and the media. Despite the attention, he has managed to maintain a focus on his career and personal growth, demonstrating resilience and a strong sense of self. Further, as Lou Williams continues to play and potentially transition into new roles within the basketball world, his legacy as a dynamic scorer and influential sixth man is firmly established. His net worth of $16 million reflects his success on the court, his impact on the sport, and his ability to connect with fans and communities.
At the Make Good Famous Summit on Thursday, NBA Hall of Famer Dwyane Wade was presented with the Elevate Prize Catalyst Award for his urgent and vital work. Together with his 16-year-old daughter Zaya, he founded Translatable, an online community that is not just a support system but a lifeline for transgender children and their families. Wade’s mission for this community is clear: “support growth, mental health, and well-being, and to spark conversations that lead to greater understanding and acceptance.”
Wade will use the $250,000 in unrestricted funds he received from winning the Elevate Prize Catalyst Award to fund Translatable. Carolina García Jayaram, CEO of Elevate Prize Foundation, mentioned that her organization contributed an additional donation to the initiative. Dwyane Wade told the Associated Press, “The question was presented to [Zaya] as, ‘If you have one thing that you want to see change in this community, what would it be?’” Wade continued, “And, for her, it goes right to parents. It goes right to the adults. It goes right to us. It’s not the kids. It’s us. And so she wanted to create a space that felt safe for parents and their kids. That’s what Translatable is, and it’s her baby.”
As a result of anti-trans laws in the state of Florida,Dwyane Wade, who lived and played for the Miami Heat for nearly his whole playing career, moved his family to California following Zaya’s 2020 announcement of her gender identity. “We’ve done so many great things here so it wasn’t easy to leave,” he said of the move. “But the community wasn’t here for Zaya, so the community wasn’t here for us.”
With an emphasis on assisting communities of color, Translatable will be launched in Florida with backing from The Trevor Project and the Human Rights Campaign. “We understand that in this state that not everyone thinks the way some others think,” Wade noted. “Like most things in life, once you get to know them, you have more ability to be understanding. And so if you don’t want to know them, then you stay ignorant in a sense.”
After being selected second overall in the 2017 draft, Lonzo Ball has struggled with injuries and has fallen short of expectations. The Chicago Bulls have suffered serious setbacks as a result of his absence. He suffered from a meniscus injury that occurred in January 2022. Ball recently was seen practicing his dunking, suggesting a possible return given his 70% health claim. For the previous two seasons, Lonzo Ball has been unable to play for the Chicago Bulls. He still wants to be involved in the team’s 2024–2025 ambitions, though.
Ball exercised his $21.4 million player option for the next year, according to Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN. Chicago is still unsure about Ball’s ability to play despite the decision because his left knee has had three operations in the last two years. Following a ruptured meniscus in January 2022, he underwent a cartilage transplant treatment in March 2023 for his knee. On a recent podcast appearance, the eldest Ball brother revealed that he has a meniscus donated to him.
Lonzo Ball revealed on his podcast appearance that he had gotten a meniscus donated. He went through his injury history, detailing the timeline and injury specifics. Ball says it started when he tore his meniscus when he was on the Lakers. he then said he tore it a couple more times to the point where all the cartridge was gone, and his knee was rubbing bone on bone. He said, “I had to get new meniscus from a donor, I had to get a bone allograft and I had to get some new cartilage put in as well.” Lonzo’s injury problems have been an NBA mystery. Now it seems like, hopefully, Lonzo and his medical team have finally found the problem and that it will allow him to return to the court.
Bulls president of basketball operations Artūras Karnišovas said after the team’s season ended, “We’re just going to wait and see his progression the next couple of months.” He continued, “He’s progressing well. Everything is looking good with no setbacks. So we’ll see where he’s at in a couple of months.” Bulls fans will be static if Lonzo Ball is finally able to return to the court. When he was healthy, the Bulls were one of the best teams in the East. Overall, with the emergence of Coby White and vets like Alex Caruso and DeMar DeRozan, the Bulls will look to make moves next season. Nevertheless, there are not many cases where a player gets a meniscus replacement and returns to their former self.
Kyle Lowry Is a distinguished NBA player known for his tenacity and leadership on the court. He has built an impressive career in professional basketball. According to CelebrityNetWorth, his net worth is estimated to be $100 million as of 2024. Lowry’s journey from a talented high school player to an NBA champion and six-time All-Star exemplifies his dedication, skill, and impact on the sport.
Born on March 25, 1986, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Kyle Lowry’s early life was shaped by his passion for basketball. Excelling in high school and later at Villanova University, Lowry’s talents caught the attention of NBA scouts. It set the stage for a career that would see him rise to the top of the league. His perseverance and work ethic have made him a cornerstone player, especially noted for his time with the Toronto Raptors.
NBA Career & Achievements
PHOENIX, ARIZONA – MARCH 20: Kyle Lowry #7 of the Philadelphia 76ers controls the ball during the game against the Phoenix Suns at Footprint. Center on March 20, 2024, also in Phoenix, Arizona. The Suns defeated the 76ers 115-102. (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images)
Kyle Lowry’s NBA career began in 2006 when the Memphis Grizzlies drafted him 24th overall. After stints with the Grizzlies and the Houston Rockets, Lowry found his stride with the Toronto Raptors. While there, he became a key player and leader. His tenure with the Raptors is marked by numerous highlights, including leading the team to its first NBA championship in 2019.
Lowry’s impact on the court is evident in his statistics and accolades. He has been selected to the NBA All-Star team six times, reflecting his consistent performance and importance to his teams. His ability to influence the game through scoring, defense, and playmaking has earned him respect from peers and fans alike.
Leadership & Legacy With The Raptors
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – APRIL 17: Kyle Lowry #7 of the Philadelphia 76ers reacts during the third quarter against the Miami Heat during the Eastern Conference Play-In. Tournament at the Wells Fargo Center on April 17, 2024, also in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)
During his time with the Toronto Raptors, Kyle Lowry became known not just for his skills but also for his leadership qualities. He was instrumental in changing the team’s culture, emphasizing hard work and a winning mentality. His partnership with fellow All-Star DeMar DeRozan initially, and later with Kawhi Leonard, created a formidable team that consistently competed at the highest levels.
The pinnacle of Lowry’s career came in the 2018-2019 season when the Raptors won their first NBA Championship. Lowry’s performance throughout the playoffs, particularly in the Finals against the Golden State Warriors, was crucial to the team’s success. This victory cemented his legacy in Toronto and solidified his place in NBA history. The championship run further enhanced his marketability, leading to lucrative endorsement deals and contributing to his overall net worth.
Personal Life & Philanthropy
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN – MARCH 14: Kyle Lowry #7 of the Philadelphia 76ers drives to the basket against Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks during a game at Fiserv. Forum on March 14, 2024 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
Further, Kyle Lowry is known for his commitment to his family and his philanthropic efforts. He is married to Ayahna Cornish-Lowry, and the couple has two sons. Lowry’s dedication to his family is often highlighted in interviews and public appearances, showcasing the importance of his role as a husband and father.
Lowry is also actively involved in charitable activities. Through the Lowry Love Foundation, he and his wife work to improve the lives of disadvantaged families in Philadelphia and Toronto. The foundation focuses on education, health, and community development initiatives, reflecting Lowry’s desire to give back to the communities that have supported him throughout his career.
