In a dramatic season opener on Wednesday night, the Phoenix Suns overcame a late deficit to defeat the Los Angeles Clippers 116-113 in overtime, spoiling the debut of LA’s new home at the Intuit Dome. Last season, the Suns struggled in the fourth quarter, but they closed regulation with a 22-12 run to force the extra period, showing early signs of improvement.
Phoenix’s star trio delivered, with Kevin Durant scoring 25 points and grabbing seven rebounds, Bradley Beal adding 24 points, including four three-pointers, and Devin Booker contributing 15 points and six assists before fouling out. The trio combined for 64 points, marking a historic first overtime game in a new arena since Charlotte’s Spectrum Arena opener in 2005.
James Harden posted an impressive near triple-double on the Clippers’ side with 29 points, 12 rebounds, and eight assists. His connection with Ivica Zubac was strong, as the center tallied 21 points and nine rebounds, with half of Harden’s assists going to Zubac. Despite their combined 50-point effort, the Clippers fell short in their home debut.
As the new season kicks off, this thrilling overtime contest sets an exciting tone for both teams.
Clipped, the new FX drama series that follows the NBA’s Donald Sterling Saga, premiered this week. The series comes after a taped conversation between Clippers owner Donald Sterling (Ed O’Neill) and his arm candy, mistress, assistant, and “silly rabbit,” V. Stiviano (Cleopatra Coleman) was released in 2014. The shocking racism on the tape caused a huge uproar, which ultimately resulted in Sterling’s dismissal. When the first look at the series dropped, fans were quick to roast the casting of the real-life players and figures. Joe Budden says he can’t get into the show because he can’t get over the casting.
The casting of iconic actor Laurence Fishburne as Doc Rivers, the then coach of the Clippers, was a point of comedy for NBA fans. Now that the first episode is out, NBA fans are roasting the casting of players like Chris Paul, balke Griffin, and Steph Curry. It is hard to get a one-to-one casting, but it is pretty funny that these well-known figures have these accurate doppelgangers. Joe Budden and some viewers just can’t get past the casting choices, and it’s hard not to blame them.
Joe Budden Hates The Casting But Clipped Is Pretty Good
A decade after the scandal broke and on the eve of the NBA Finals, the series, which is an adaptation of Gina Welch’s ESPN podcast The Sterling Affairs, explores the challenges the league faces. Up to the NBA’s 2014 ban and forced sale of the team by new commissioner Adam Silver, Sterling is shown brushing the entire situation off as “A big nothing.” Joe Budden and viewers of the first two episodes had some takes on the casting choices. Fans roasted the actors who played Steph Curry and Klay Thompson. Fishburne’s Doc Rivers has also been the subject of many jokes on social media.
The casting may be a turnoff for Joe Budden and many fans who know these real-life individuals intimately, but the show is pretty good. It’s a trashy and entertaining drama that explores a period in time that isn’t that long ago. The casting does add a layer of comedy that makes it fun to watch if you are an NBA diehard. People like Joe Budden may have been expecting a very serious retelling of a time of upheaval in the NBA’s ownership due to racism. But the series is having fun telling a juicy story with a lot of moving parts. Overall, what do you think about the Clipped casting?
The Los Angeles Clippers have operated under the Los Angeles Lakers’ shadow for all of their existence. The Clippers have always come in second. Now, owner Steve Ballmer is ready to change that idea with a new arena that they won’t have to share with the Lakers. Although the two teams have always used the same stadium, the Clippers have never felt at home there. There is always a pro-Lakers crowd present when the Lakers and Clippers play. The Clippers have had to hide the Lakers’ title banners during home games. The Billionaire gave Jay Z a tour of the almost finished state-of-the-art arena.
The Clippers will have a new arena to play in in the coming season—finally, one the squad can claim as its own. The Clippers will play in the Intuit Dome starting in the upcoming season. Steve Ballmer has been aiming for this arena for a long time. Finally, the public will be able to access it. Jay-Z, who has sat courtside with Ballmer on many occasions, got a personal tour of the arena this week, and it looks incredible even though it’s not yet finished.
Jay-Z toured the Arena, which is estimated to cost almost $1.2 billion. As previously reported by CNBC, the building’s name rights agreement was for somewhat more than $500 billion. According to Urbanize LA, the arena will be situated on a 28-acre mixed-use development tract in Inglewood. It has space for 18,000 people. It will be situated immediately to the south of the Rams’ SoFi stadium campus. The Clippers’ new campus will feature a 25,000-square-foot sports medicine center, 71,000 square feet of club office space, and an 85,000-square-foot practice facility. A concert stage and a retail area with plenty of activity are also planned.
Jay-Z will surely be treated to some upscale treatment whenever he visits his buddy Ballmer’s new arena. Probably the most awesome feature of the arena itself is this. The Clippers will feature “The Wall,” a section of seats reserved for supporters. There will be 51 rows of seats reserved exclusively for Clippers supporters. If supporters choose to sit in this section, they must abide by certain conditions. Steve Ballmer and the Clippers are trying to strike out on their own and stop being the little brother to the Lakers. Overall, expect to see Jay-Z courtside or in one of the luxurious suites during a Clippers home game next season.
In a hard-fought battle, Luka Doncic and the Mavericks clinched victory against the Clippers in the first round of the playoffs, winning the series in six games with a final score of 114-101.
Doncic, alongside teammate Kyrie Irving, orchestrated the Mavericks’ triumph with a combined effort of 58 points and 17 assists. Doncic dominated the first half, contributing 18 of his 28 points, while Irving took charge in the second half, scoring 28 of his 30 points during that period.
Irving’s consistent second-half performances were a highlight of the series, averaging 20 points per game after halftime.
Despite the Clippers’ resilient efforts, the Mavericks maintained control, repeatedly extending their lead whenever the Clippers threatened a comeback. Norman Powell led the Clippers’ scoring efforts with 20 points off the bench, supported by Paul George and James Harden, who combined for 34 points.
Looking ahead, the Mavericks are set to face the Thunder in the West Semifinals, with Game 1 scheduled for Tuesday at 9:30 PM ET on TNT.
The Clippers and the Mavericks seemingly always match up in the playoffs. The teams have faced off in the playoffs 3 out of the past 5 seasons. Playing against each other so much creates a level of familiarity between the teams. That familiarity can also create a touch of animosity. The playoffs are intense, and emotions run high. Additionally, the intensity and emotions are even more heightened when you have been going up against a certain team for so long. In game 3, Russell Westbrook and PJ Washington were ejected after an altercation after Westbrook’s hard foul on Luka Doncic. Washington starred down the Clippers bench, taunting them with his arms crossed. Paul George made sure to remember that for game 3.
Game 4 between the Dallas Mavericks and the Los Angeles Clippers was a spectacle. The Clippers dominated the first quarter, outscoring the Mavs 39-16. The Mavericks, however, were not to be outdone, gradually closing the gap and turning it into a nail-biting contest in the fourth. This was playoff basketball at its finest. Leading the charge was Paul George, a man on a mission, who lit up the court with five 3-pointers in the first half. After his 5th 3 of the first half, Paul George hit PJ Washington with the same taunt he had given the Clippers bench.
Paul George was on one in game 4. The Clippers dominated the first half, and George went off, hitting five threes. The tough guy act PJ Washington hit the Clippers bench with was obviously something they did not take lightly. Paul George decided to remind Washington while simultaneously lighting up the Mavs on the scoreboard. The series has been very entertaining, and it looks like it could go seven games.
The Mavs and the Clippers are now tied 2-2. Despite the absence of Kawhi Leonard, the Clippers were able to tie the series up. The status of their star is uncertain, but James Harden and Paul George have seriously stepped up. Luka Doncic has not been the same MVP he has been all season this series and will look to get his game back on track. Overall, Clippers Mavericks might be the best first-round series of the playoffs.
Police are searching for suspects after videos of teenagers vandalizing the unfinished Intuit Dome in LA were posted to TikTok. The perpetrators climbed on scaffolding and discharged fire extinguishers in the collection of clips posted online. After gaining entry via a construction ladder, the teens took a few shots on the unfinished court. The Intuit Dome is due to open in time for the next NBA season and will give the Clippers a new permanent home to go along with their recent branding redesign.
Per Inglewood Mayor James Butts Jr, the perpetrators have already been identified. “It will be very clear to these young men — and to people who are TikTok followers — that you have a moment of TikTok greatness followed by a little bit of misery. And so we don’t play around with these things,” Butts warned.
Kawhi Leonard Signs Huge Extension With LA Clippers
Meanwhile, Kawhi Leonard recently signed a three-year contract extension with the Los Angeles Clippers reportedly worth $157M. The terms were not disclosed by the Clippers but later reported by Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN. The deal does not contain a player option. Furthermore, the team is reportedly working on an extension for Paul George, Leonard’s All-Star tandem partner. Both players were eligible for a maximum extension of four years and $223M. The Clippers move into the Intuit Dome, next season. It’s clear they want their cornerstones with them to begin that new era.
The Clippers are 38-20 on the season. However, they have hit a rough patch and have lost three of their last five. With Leonard and George both healthy and productive, the team has blossomed into a true contender. Both players are averaging over 23 points a game. Meanwhile, the early-season trade for James Harden gave the team a proven ball distributor. With their big three finally assembled, the Clippers currently hold the 4th seed in the Western Conference.
Russell Westbrook, the dynamic NBA point guard known for his explosive playing style and relentless drive, has not only made his mark on the basketball court but also in the world of business. As of 2024, Forbes estimates Westbrook’s net worth to be around a staggering $375 million. Let’s delve into the journey of this basketball icon, from his early career to his ventures off the court, to understand how he amassed such wealth.
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK – APRIL 21: Russell Westbrook #0 of the Oklahoma City Thunder dribbles down the court during a game against the Portland Trail Blazers during Round One Game Three of the 2019 NBA Playoffs on April 21, 2019 at Chesapeake Energy Arena in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)
Westbrook’s journey to NBA superstardom began during his collegiate years at UCLA, where his exceptional athleticism and skills caught the attention of scouts and fans alike. In 2008, he declared for the NBA Draft after two impressive seasons with the Bruins. Selected fourth overall by the Seattle SuperSonics (later relocated and renamed as the Oklahoma City Thunder), Westbrook quickly showcased his potential as a force to be reckoned with on the court.
Accolades & On-Court Success
EL SEGUNDO, CALIFORNIA – SEPTEMBER 26: Russell Westbrook #0 of the Los Angeles Lakers during Los Angeles Lakers media day at UCLA Health Training Center on September 26, 2022 in El Segundo, California. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
Throughout his NBA career, Westbrook has racked up an impressive array of accolades and achievements. He is a nine-time NBA All-Star, a two-time scoring champion, and the only player in league history to average a triple-double for three consecutive seasons. Westbrook’s relentless energy and competitive spirit have earned him numerous All-NBA Team selections and the league’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) award in 2017. His electrifying performances and highlight-reel plays have solidified his status as one of the most exciting players to watch in the NBA.
Off the court, Westbrook has leveraged his fame and influence to pursue various business ventures, further bolstering his net worth. He has collaborated with major brands such as Nike, Jordan Brand, and Mountain Dew, securing lucrative endorsement deals that have added to his financial portfolio.
Beyond his endorsements, Westbrook has demonstrated his entrepreneurial acumen through investments in real estate, media, and fashion. He launched his own clothing line, Honor the Gift, in 2018, offering a range of apparel inspired by his personal style and experiences. Additionally, Westbrook has ventured into the realm of media production, partnering with platforms like YouTube and producing content that showcases his interests beyond basketball.
In recent years, Westbrook has expanded his off-court endeavors to include philanthropy, using his platform to advocate for social justice causes and support underserved communities. Through his Why Not? Foundation, he has funded initiatives aimed at empowering youth through education, mentorship, and sports programs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Russell Westbrook’s journey from a standout college player to an NBA superstar and successful entrepreneur exemplifies the power of talent, determination, and strategic vision. With a net worth estimated at $375 million, Westbrook continues to leave an indelible mark on the worlds of sports, business, and philanthropy. As he continues to pursue excellence both on and off the court, it’s clear that the sky’s the limit for this basketball icon.
Ty Lue has been fined $35K for accusing the refs of “cheating” during the Clippers’ tense game against Golden State earlier this week. “Where James at? The referee. I want to kick him in the mouth,” Lue was heard yelling in reference to referee James Williams. Lue was ejected after earning a pair of technical fouls during the fourth quarter and following a brief scuffle between the two teams. After the Lue was explicitly heard accusing the refs of cheating.
Down big, the Clippers mounted a late-game comeback in the fourth quarter to eventually beat Golden State by five. James Harden and Paul George combined for 50 points as the team notched its 36th win of the season. Furthermore, the Clippers have won three out of the four games played against the Warriors this season. The Clippers, third in the West, are next in action against the Thunder following the All-Star Break.
— Ahmed/The Ears/IG: BigBizTheGod (@big_business_) February 15, 2024
However, Lue’s comments were not the only story to come out of the Wednesday night matchup. Fans are debating how to interpret a clip of Draymond Green from the game. A very intense Green was seen showing four things toward an unknown party before making a sharp, staccato motion. Several fans have argued that this was Green threatening to shank someone. However, others have countered by arguing that Green was merely flexing his four championship rings.
Draymond had nine points, 10 rebounds, and four assists in the five-point loss to LA. In three games against the Clippers this season, Green is averaging 14.3/8/4.3. The blowout loss dropped the Warriors back to .500 at 26-26. The team currently holds 10th in the West, courtesy of Utah being 0-3 in their three more games played than the Warriors. Up next for Golden State are the Jazz. That is followed by a three-game homestand against the Lakers, Hornets, and Nuggets.
Fans are debating how to interpret a clip of Draymond Green from a recent game against the Clippers. A very intense Green was seen showing four things toward an unknown party before making a sharp, staccato motion. Several fans have argued that this was Green threatening to shank someone. However, others have countered by arguing that Green was merely flexing his four championship rings.
Draymond had nine points, 10 rebounds, and four assists in the 15-point loss to LA. In three games against the Clippers this season, Green is averaging 14.3/8/4.3. The blowout loss dropped the Warriors back to .500 at 26-26. The team currently holds 10th in the West, courtesy of Utah being 0-3 in their three more games played than the Warriors. Up next for Golden State are the aforementioned Jazz. That is followed by a three-game homestand against the Lakers, Hornets, and Nuggets.
Meanwhile, Green has continued to take shots at Suns center Jusuf Nurkic. During a segment on The Draymond Green Show, the veteran Warrior went after comments that Nurkic made during their tense first meeting since Green’s suspension last week. Green dismissed Nurkic’s comments about his volatility by suggesting that the center was just mad that Green had cooked him all game. Green consistently brought up how poorly Nurkic had performed in the matchup. However, fans were quick to point out that the stat line that Green was roasting was a “typical Draymond night”.
Following their meeting last week, in which Green and Nurkic traded words and taunts, Nurkic made a heated prediction about the rest of Green’s season. “It’s sad. He didn’t learn anything. Just a matter of time. He’s going to hit somebody else again. Take back everything I said. He don’t deserve a chance,” Nurkic said. At the time, Green took the high road, speaking on his own gameplay. However, it’s clear that Green is eager to feud with the Suns big man.
A Miami Heat fan was ejected from the team’s recent game against the Clippers after appearing to call Russell Westbrook “boy”. While footage of the full interaction has not appeared online, a clip film immediately before the fan was asked to leave has. It shows the man shouting “I paid for these seats, boy” at Westbrook. However, due to the abridged nature of the publicly posted clips, it is currently unclear what started the argument between the fan and Westbrook.
“Boy”, especially when used by a white individual towards a Black man, is considered to be a racial slur. It harkens back to the days of the Jim Crow South and is considered both demeaningly and highly offensive. The NBA, Heat, and Clippers are all yet to address the incident publicly. This is a developing story and we’ll have any updates as and when they emerge.
Westbrook has appeared in 50 games this season, but has started just 10 of them. Despite this, he is averaging 22.8 minutes a game along with a 11.3/5.5/4.7 stat line. This is Westbrook’s first full season with the Clippers. He joined them in a deadline trade last year which moved him across LA from the Lakers. The Clippers are currently fourth in the West with a 34-16 record.
However, their current success is a major turnaround from the team that started 3-7 and was 10-10 after 20 games. At one point early in the season, Westbrook asked the Clippers coaching staff to transition him to a bench role amid the team’s six-game losing streak. According to sources who spoke with Bleacher Report, Westbrook requested the move in an attempt to allow the first team unit to develop more cohesion. It allowed Terance Mann to play a more impactful cleanup role alongside James Harden, Paul George, and Kawhi Leonard. As a result, Westbrook brought a bigger veteran leadership role to the second unit. This helped open the floor up more while Harden and Leonard weren’t there.
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