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Jamal Murray Hits Game Winner And Breaks The Lakers Spirits In Game 2

April 23, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Jamal Muray’s ridiculous game-winner capped off last night’s matchup between the Lakers and the Nuggets. In what was the best game of the playoffs so far, the Nuggets have taken a commanding 2-0 lead in the series. Despite facing a 20-point deficit in the second half, Denver kept chipping away at the Lakers. Eventually, they were back in the game despite heroics from Anthony Davis and LeBron James. The final minute of the game was a back-and-forth display, but after a missed LeBron James 3-pointer, the Nuggets had the ball for the last possession, tied at 99. Despite a poor evening shooting the ball, Jamal Murray took and made the biggest shot of the game, winning the Nuggets the game101-99.

The game was fantastic. Anthony Davis played one of the best games of his playoff career, putting up 32 points and causing Nikola Jokic Problems on the defense. LeBron had a spectacular all-around game, making big plays on both sides of the court. Although the Lakers superstars played like superstars, the Nuggets were able to adjust and walk down LA. The defending champs made erasing that 20-point deficit seem easy.

Jamal Murray Hits Game-Winner Over Anthony Davis

Jamal Murray did not have a great shooting performance. The Nuggets point guard missed a ton of open looks, especially early on. Murray scored 20 points, shooting 9-24 from the field, but started to heat up in the second half. Murray elevated his game in crunch time and scored 14 of his 20 in the fourth. MVP Nikola Jokic looked for Murrary throughout the game even though he was struggling, and he continued to try to find his dance partner during crunch time. In the closing seconds, Murray gets the switch on Anthony Davis and hits a clutch mid-range shot over good defense as time expired.

The Lakers are in a bad position. They are down 2-0 to a team they have now lost ten straight games to. LeBron James and Anthony Davis have been great, but they just haven’t been enough. The Lakers had their chance with a 20-point lead in the second half, but decision-making and poor defensive strategy allowed Denver to chip away. The series could easily be tied going back to LA. LeBron and the Lakers will have a tough time reversing this series, especially if Murray and Jokic really start cooking.

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Colin Cowherd Proclaims Kevin Durant Is Becoming Irrelevant

April 22, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Colin Cowherd has some bold takes about Kevin Durant after game 1 of Suns vs. Timberwolves. Kevin Durant and the Phoenix Suns lost their game-one matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves 95 to 120. Anthony Edwards led the Wolves to their blowout win, scoring 33 points and grabbing 9 boards in a statement win. The young star made sure to let Kevin Durant know he had his way. KD just smiled and continued to hoop, obviously respecting Edwards’ smack talk. It’s game one of the playoffs, and you should never get carried away after game one of a seven-game series. Things can change pretty fast in the NBA playoffs.

On The Herd, Colin Cowherd had some hot takes about Kevin Durant after the Suns lost. Cowherd was not impressed by the performance and took shots at Durant. Cowherd believes Durant is in danger of becoming irrelevant because other players are eclipsing his accomplishments. The two-time champion is yet again in the midst of more discourse about his career. After just game one, what are the takes going to look like after game two?

Colin Cowherd Rips KD After Game 1

After watching two hours of Durant and the Suns get rolled, Cowherd is examining KD’s whole career. The sports talking head says he saw no fight or toughness from the Suns, and it all comes down to Durant. He goes on to list all the players that have eclipsed Kevin Durant, who he says a few years ago people argued was better than LeBron. Cowherd goes on to circle back to the subject everyone circles back to when discussing Durant: The Golden State Warriors. Cowherd criticized his decision-making, implying he really cared about winning. KD did leave a pretty perfect on-court situation in Golden State. He probably would have another ring if he stayed.

Since Golden State, Kevin Durant hasn’t been past the second round of the playoffs. His stop in Brooklyn ended unceremoniously. His Suns tenure has been erratic, and they haven’t lived up to expectations. The narrative could change if the Suns end up winning their series against the Timberwolves, which is very possible. The Suns face off against the Timberwolves on Tuesday.

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NBA Players Vote On Who Is The GOAT: LeBron James Or Michael Jordan?

April 22, 2024 by newhiphopnews

The GOAT debate is alive and well. Fans constantly go back and forth on who the greatest basketball player of all time is. The two names that have been battling it out for GOAT status for years now are, of course, Michael Jordan and LeBron James. LeBron’s career has been one of trying to eclipse the greatness of Michael Jorda. Additionally, LeBron is still playing and adding to his resume. Some believe that no matter what LeBron does with the time he has left, he can’t match Jordan’s accomplishments. In any case, they are the two names brought up in the debate, with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar usually coming in third.

The argument stays around because it’s interesting and fans are obsessed, but it’s also fun. We know fans are generally split, but what about current NBA players? The Athletic released its annual player polls that asked players various questions. The poll asks players questions like: who is the most overrated player in the league? Who is The Finals favorite? This year, they asked who the GOAT is, and the results are very interesting.

Is LeBron James or Michael Jordan The GOAT

NBA players have voted Michael Jordan the greatest basketball player ever, with LeBron James coming in second place. The vote was very close, with MJ receiving 45.8% of the vote and LeBron receiving 42.1% of the vote. Additionally, Kobe Bryant received 9.8% of the vote. Kobe’s impact on the game can’t be understated. A lot of players like Jayson Tatum and Devin Booker revere him. Steph Curry got a couple of votes from his teammates, and Magic Johnson also received some love. Fans have just looked at the Paul Peirce votes and rolled their eyes.

LeBron is still in the league, and NBA players are still competitors, but almost half of the league thinks he is the GOAT. MJ and LeBron are going to continue to be a debate for years to come. Additionally, when LeBron finally retires, all the evidence will be in, and resumes will be finalized. LeBron is currently facing off against the Denver Nuggets in the first game of their first-round playoff matchup. The Lakers lost 103-114 to the defending champions. Undoubtedly, LeBron and the Lakers have an uphill battle and look to equalize the series tonight.

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Bronny James’ Draft Outlook Gets Sobering Update From ESPN

April 22, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Bronny James declared for the NBA draft early this month, opting to leave USC after this freshman season. Bronny had a less-than-stellar freshman season and is opting to bet on himself to make it to the NBA. It is more likely that Bronny won’t be selected in the 2024 NBA Draft. The latest ESPN Mock draft has Bronny embarrassingly going undrafted. While it’s just a mock draft, it represents many scouts’ opinions of Bronny. He didn’t put up spectacular numbers as a freshman, and while there’s obvious talent, there isn’t enough evidence to draft him.

Many believe he should go back to school, but that might not be a bad idea. Going back to school, he could show that his freshman season was a fluke and that he is the real deal. Additionally, there’s a possibility that even if he goes undrafted, he will try to grind it out and make an NBA roster via the G-League. Bronny is LeBron’s son, so he will most likely get a thorough look this summer as the combine approaches and draft workouts take place. Still, it’s pretty demoralizing not even being considered worth using a second-round pick on.

Bronny James Might Be Left Undrafted

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – MARCH 14: Bronny James #6 of the USC Trojans looks on in the second half of a quarterfinal game against the Arizona Wildcats during the Pac-12 Conference basketball tournament at T-Mobile Arena on March 14, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Wildcats defeated the Trojans 70-49. (Photo by David Becker/Getty Images)

Bronny James averaged 4.8 points per game on 36.6% shooting from the field, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists in 25 games. He displayed energy and athleticism on defense but was not very effective when he was on the course. Some believe Bronny still has the potential to be an impactful player at the next level. In high school, Bronny was a knockdown shooter with great defensive instincts. You will always have a place in the league if you can defend and hit threes in the NBA. He will get the opportunity to go up against his fellow draft hopefuls, and it may push him up some draft boards enough for a team to pick him in the second round.

Bronny had a turbulent freshman season at USC. He suffered from cardiac arrest during the Triojans summer workouts, putting his playing career in doubt. He recovered strong and was able to make his debut for USC four months after his heart surgery. Bronny didn’t get a complete off-season to get acclimated to college. He made his debut and had to learn on the fly on a team that wasn’t very good. Bronny will for sure get a shot at the NBA. He may end up going back to college for another year, but the NBA will always be the endgame for Bronny.

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Damian Lillard Drops A Monster 35-Point First Half On The Indiana Pacers

April 22, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Damian Lillard had quite the playoff debut for the Milwaukee Bucks. Lillard showed out in his first playoff action in two years, dropping 35 points in the first half against the Indiana Pacers. The Bucks are without their MVP, Giannis Antetokounmpo, who was ruled out of game one with an injury. All the pressure was on Dame to lead the Bucks against an opponent that has had their number all season. The Pacers were 4-1 against the Bucks this season. The playoffs are a different animal altogether, and Damian Lillard looked to send a message early.

Dame scored 35 points in 24 minutes, lighting it up from long range and hitting six three-pointers to build a huge lead on the Pacers. The Bucks and Lillard came out strong and just overmatched the Pacers early with their energy. Indiana could not shoot the ball early on, resulting in a half where, as a team, they only outscored Dame. It’s a huge wake-up call for the Pacers, who, despite being a young team, were the trendy pick against the Bucks because they have played so well against them in the regular season.

Dame Puts on A Show In Game 1

Damian Lillard’s first half was something to behold. His performance was the perfect playoff debut for his new team’s fans, who should now be familiar with how Dame works. Lillard just makes impossible shots look easy, and he is the ultimate showman. It’s also a big win because the Bucks’ best player didn’t even play. The Bucks are probably more comfortable being cautious with Giannis Antetokounmpo’s injury and allowing him to fully heal before throwing him back out there. Dame’s performance is a reminder of why the Bucks traded for the all-star.

The Indiana Pacers were not ready for Damian Lillard and the Bucks. The energy levels and nerves of the playoffs clearly got to a young team. The only bright spot was veteran and NBA champion Pascal Siakam, who played great, putting up 36 points in. a losing effort. The Pacers went on a run in the second half of the play of Siakam and T.J. McConnell and kept the game close. Ultimately, they couldn’t overtake the Bucks, and it was because of Lillard’s first-half explosion combined with poor shooting. Lillard clearly remembered the trash talk from earlier in the season and reminded them that it’s Dame time now.

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Deandre Ayton Net Worth 2024: What Is The NBA Basketball Star Worth?

April 19, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Deandre Ayton is a standout figure in professional basketball. He has built a net worth of $35 million by 2024, as per Sportskeeda. His ascent in the NBA, marked by significant on-court achievements and lucrative endorsements, positions him as a top-tier athlete and a savvy businessman. Ayton’s journey from his roots in the Bahamas to becoming the first overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft reflects a narrative of sheer determination and talent, pivotal in his financial and professional accomplishments.

Early Life & Breakthrough In Basketball

Born in Nassau, Bahamas, Deandre Ayton’s basketball prowess was evident from a young age. His towering stature and natural skill set made him a dominant force in high school basketball, first in the Bahamas and then at multiple high-profile schools in the United States. His college years at the University of Arizona saw him quickly becoming one of the most formidable players in the nation, ultimately earning him the Pac-12 Player of the Year in 2018. This stellar college career set the stage for his #1 draft pick status, where he was selected by the Phoenix Suns, heralding the start of a promising NBA career.

NBA Achievements & Career Highlights

Since joining the NBA, Deandre Ayton has proven to be a crucial asset for the Suns, helping lead the team to the NBA Finals in 2021. His ability to consistently deliver double-doubles and his impact on both ends of the floor have made him a critical player in the league. Ayton’s performance during the 2021 NBA playoffs was particularly noteworthy, as he demonstrated exceptional skill and poise under pressure, significantly enhancing his reputation and marketability. These achievements have not only bolstered his profile but have also increased his earning potential through contract extensions and salary increases.

Endorsements & Business Ventures

Off the court, Deandre Ayton has capitalized on his growing fame through various endorsements and business deals. His endorsements include major sportswear and lifestyle brands, complementing his image as a young and upcoming NBA star. Additionally, Ayton has shown an interest in real estate and other investments, broadening his financial portfolio beyond his basketball earnings. These ventures demonstrate his forward-thinking approach to building and sustaining wealth long after his playing days might end.

Deandre Ayton’s trajectory in the NBA is a compelling story of success and strategic financial management. From his early beginnings in the Bahamas to his rise as a basketball prodigy and his subsequent economic ventures, Ayton’s journey encapsulates the essence of a modern athlete who is as adept in business as he is in sports. His ongoing career is a beacon for young athletes worldwide, proving that substantial success is achievable with talent and a smart approach to career management.

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Common Gets Fans Hyped For USA Basketball In Promo For 2024 Paris Olympics

April 19, 2024 by newhiphopnews

USA Basketball has tapped Common to hype up fans ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics. USA Basketball has assembled a stacked team to go for the gold in Paris. The team features the likes of LeBron James, Steph Curry, Kevin Durant, and several other superstars. The roster is a strong response to the USA placing third in the FIBA Basketball World Cup last summer. That World Cup team featured mostly young up-and-coming players. Anthony Edwards and Tyrese Halliburton, standouts on the bronze medal team, will also feature on the Olympic Roster.

Common hypes up Team USA in a promo that recalls the dominance that is Team USA Basketball’s history. He recalls The Dream team that set everything off and the Redeem Team that brought the USA back to the top of the mountain. Common introduced the 2024 roster in epic fashion. Building up what will be a must-see event this summer. Getting to see LeBron, Steph, Kawhi Leonard and Anthony Davis on the same team is a basketball dream.

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Common introduces the entire stacked USA roster. He gives each player their proper due to explain just how amazing it is they are all going to be on the same team. You have the inside dominance of players like Joel Embiid and Anthony Davis. You have the supreme shooting of Steph Curry with the overall dominance of someone like LeBron. It is refreshing to see players of this stature still putting themselves out there and playing for Team USA. Players like KD are looking to make history and break Team USA records.

The NBA Playoffs are starting to kick off. Things can change due to injury and other reasons. Despite the possibility of players changing the roster, it will be one of the strongest in NBA history. Common and the new promo are definitely adding to the occasion. The Paris Olympics won’t be a walk in the park. The USA will have to go up against the likes of Nikola Jokic, Luka Doncic, and rookie Victor Wembanyama, among other international stars. This summer is going to be special for basketball fans.

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Lil Wayne Stars In NBA Playoffs Commercial With Chris Rock As Narrator

April 19, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Lil Wayne is a common sight at NBA games. Wayne is an avid sports fan and loves basketball, so it’s only fitting he leads the promo for the NBA playoffs. He leads a list of big names that have been tapped by the NBA to feature in their playoff promotion. The promotion features narration from Chris Rock. Additionally, other celebrities, including ESPN’s Malika Andrews, Guy Fieri, and singer Anuel AA, joined Lil Wayne in the promotion. The commercial also features several NBA stars like Anthony Edwards, Jalen Brunson, and Jayson Tatum.

The NBA playoffs are shaping up to be spectacular. With so many good teams, star players, and incredible matchups, the playoffs need a hype man. Weezy is the perfect person to lead the playoff promo. The New Orleans native’s hometown team still has a chance to make it, but he is known to have allegiances with other teams like The Celtics. Furthermore, Wayne is routinely seen at Lakers games with his son. NBA fans will likely see Weezy courtside in their commercial breaks this postseason.

Lil Wayne NBA Commercial Kicks The Playoffs Off

Chris Rock narrates as we see NBA stars like Jason Tatum, joined by Lil Wayne and ESPN’s Malika Andrews. The ad campaign is called “Playoff Mode,” and we see Jayson Tatum being asked about “Playoff Jayson.” The idea is players elevate their game in the playoffs. Tatum denies the allegations, and Chris Rock goes into the evidence. Rock introduces Lil Wayne as “Playoff Tunechi,” as we see him in an arcade playing a claw machine game. It’s a fun commercial, and Wayne looks like he is having a good time. We also see Shaq and Guy Fieri as the commercial ends.

The NBA playoffs start on Saturday, April 20th, with matchups all day. Before the big show, the final spots in the Western Conference will be decided tonight. The New Orleans Pelicans play the Sacramento Kings for the final spot in the west. Additionally, the Chicago Bulls take on the Miami Heat for the final spot in the east. Lil Wayne’s playoff commercial will definitely be played several times tonight and throughout the first round.

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Ice Cube Trends As Caitlin Clark’s WNBA Salary Is Exposed

April 19, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Ice Cube became a trending topic on X after Caitlin Clark’s WNBA salary was leaked during the draft. Clark, who is one of the biggest names in sports right now, was drafted no. 1 overall by the Indiana Fever. She has brought an elevated level of popularity to women’s basketball this past collegiate season. Ice Cube had previously offered Clark a contract for his three-on-three basketball league, The Big 3. The deal Cube offered was apparently worth around $5 Million dollars. Many fans thought Clark should jump on the deal, seeing that it was only for a handful of games to earn millions.

When Caitlin Clark’s WNBA salary was revealed on social media, many new fans were shocked. They didn’t know the WNBA pay standards, and it caused quite a stir. Many looked at the deal from Ice Cube that Clark did not accept and thought it was interesting. Fans are looking back and saying maybe she should have taken the deal or hit up Ice Cube because the salary in the WNBA pales in comparison. He made a bid to try and make history and capitalize on one of the most hyped women players ever. Everyone is wondering if the Big 3 deal could still happen.

DETROIT, MICHIGAN – AUGUST 13: Founder of the Big3, Ice Cube is seen during the Big3: Summer Of Fire at Little Caesars Arena on August 13, 2023 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Monica Morgan/Getty Images)

Ice Cube’s offer to Caitlin Clark looks pretty good now that we know her starting salary in the WNBA. The deal was worth up to $5 million and would allow Clark to still play in the WNBA. Additionally, she would be able to profit from merchandising as a form of additional compensation. Ice Cube said of signing Clark when news of the offer came out, “Why wouldn’t we? Caitlin is a generational athlete who can achieve tremendous success in the BIG3.”

Caitlin Clark will likely be okay. She has a lucrative deal with State Farm, among other endorsements. Clark has also recently signed a massive deal with Nike worth over $10 million, which includes a signature shoe line. Clark is fine and is going to work hard to grow the women’s game even more. Ice Cube was very smart in trying to snatch up Clark for The Big 3. It was a good business move, so you can’t blame him for trying.

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Victor Wembanyama Explains Why He Refused Drake’s Offer To Get Up On Stage

April 19, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Victor Wembanyama is already living up to the massive expectations everyone had for him in the NBA. Wemby and the San Antonio Spurs were far from the playoffs, but Wemby had a rookie season to be remembered. Wembanyama capped off his rookie season with a jaw-dropping performance against Nikola Jokic and the defending champion Denver Nuggets. Wemby put up 34 points in a comeback win, clearly cementing his Rookie of the Year award.

Wembanyama has been a wonder even before he stepped onto an NBA court. The hype around him had sports fans and celebs turning out in droves to watch him play. Drake has been on the Wemby train early, linking up with the rook back in October. Drake is a known NBA superfan. He’s reps his Toronto Raptors any chance he gets. Stories about Wemby’s leadership ability and off-the-court demeanor have been coming out. The biggest story involves how the rookie phenom turned down joining Drake on stage at the rapper’s concert.

Victor Looked Out For Teammates At Drake Concert

JJ Redick explains why he puts Wemby next to Steph and Tim Duncan pic.twitter.com/0CJBtAtOyD

— 7PM in Brooklyn (@7PMinBrooklyn) April 18, 2024

According to JJ Redick, Victor Wembanyama has been a model teammate in the mold of Tim Duncan, even as a rookie. JJ said, “There was a Drake concert…. and he got asked to come up on stage…. Wemby was like ‘can my teammates come up on stage with me?’… And Drake’s camp was like no. And he’s like, ‘then I don’t want to do it.’” It shows a lot of maturity to pass up on linking with Drake at his concert. The expectations that have been put on Wemby have been astronomical, but he has lived up to the hype. Additionally, the rookie has shown that he knows the people he shares the court with are important and that he wasn’t ready to be a leader.

Drake has met up with Wemby before, so there’s likely no beef there. Wemby was still at the concert but just didn’t get up on stage. Maybe it was a calculated move on Wemby’s part not to get dragged into the many feds Drake is in right now. Whatever the case, it’s a good example of somebody knowing they are the top dog on their team and making sure everybody under him is happy. Victor is a team-first guy, even if his team could only get 22 wins in the season.

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Jamal Murray Hits Game-Winner Over Anthony Davis

Colin Cowherd Rips KD After Game 1

Is LeBron James or Michael Jordan The GOAT

Bronny James Might Be Left Undrafted

Dame Puts on A Show In Game 1

Early Life & Breakthrough In Basketball

NBA Achievements & Career Highlights

Endorsements & Business Ventures

Common’s Hyped USA Basketball Promo

Lil Wayne NBA Commercial Kicks The Playoffs Off

Ice Cube’s Offer To Caitlin Clark Is Trending

Victor Looked Out For Teammates At Drake Concert