In a stunning turn of events, the Sacramento Kings avenged last year’s playoff defeat by eliminating the Golden State Warriors with a commanding 118-94 victory in the SoFi NBA Play-In Tournament. Led by Keegan Murray’s explosive performance, the Kings showcased their dominance on both ends of the court, flipping the script from their previous postseason encounter.
Murray, who ignited the Kings’ offense with a game-high 32 points and eight three-pointers, set the tone early in the game. Supported by strong contributions from De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis, who combined for 40 points, the Kings’ starting lineup proved too much for the Warriors to handle.
Despite a valiant effort from Warriors’ star Stephen Curry, who scored 22 points, the Kings’ suffocating defense limited his impact and disrupted the Warriors’ offensive rhythm throughout the game. Notably, Klay Thompson struggled, going 0 for 10 in 32 minutes of play.
In a display of depth and resilience, the Kings’ bench players, including Jonathan Kuminga, Moses Moody, and Brandon Podziemski, stepped up with a collective 37 points, amplifying the team’s offensive output.
The Warriors now enter free agency with a roster that needs tweaking and Thompson, who is unrestricted.
The victory marks a significant milestone for the Kings, who broke their winless streak in winner-take-all games and now look ahead to their next challenge against the New Orleans Pelicans. With an opportunity to secure their first win of the season against the Pelicans, the Kings are determined to carry their momentum forward and make a statement in their upcoming matchup.
As the Kings prepare to face the Pelicans on Friday, fans eagerly anticipate another thrilling showdown between the two teams, with the Kings aiming to turn the tide and emerge victorious against their formidable opponents.
If you are looking for an entertaining debate about sports, then look no further than ESPN‘s First Take. The show is always providing hilarious and sometimes heated back-and-forth shouting matches. That is thanks in large part to longtime sports media figure Stephen A. Smith. The topic that is breaking the internet this time involves his signature Stephen’s A-List segment where the list is always “fluid.” JJ Redick and Shannon Sharpe were in on it as well as the trio dissected his top five NBA players that deserve to be immortalized outside of their respective arenas. Stephen A. made the statement that Golden State Warriors Klay Thompson and Draymond Green need statues when they eventually retire.
This debate was sparked due to Kendrick Perkins comments during the halftime show for the Lakers versus Nuggets game. That would be the night in which LeBron James reached 40,000 points. JJ and Sharpe would go on to disagree with the list, saying players like Kawhi Leonard, Nikola Jokic, and Kevin Durant deserved to be on the list instead. However, Twitter is a tizzy more so due to the fact that Stephen A. said Klay and Draymond deserve statues, the two Warriors that helped Steph Curry win four rings.
One person claims that people do not know basketball if they disagree with SA. “The fact that there are mfs in this comment section that seriously believe Klay and Draymond shouldn’t get statues is the reason i can’t talk ball with half of y’all on here.” It looks like one other hoop fanatic will not be getting talked to, because he has the total opposite opinion. “This has been Klay and Draymond legacy for the past 4 seasons.” His tweet includes a meme of Steph asking for help after scoring so many points, while Klay and the others say, “Shoot that s*** Steph!” Hilariously, Draymond is looking to pick fights, “Lollll imma punch somebody.”
What are your thoughts on Stephen A. Smith’s take on the Warriors’ Klay Thompson and Draymond deserving statues outside of their arena? Do you think that Stephen Curry would have been able to be this successful without them? Is Smith’s list an “A-List,” why or why not? We would like to hear what you have to say, so be sure to leave your takes in the comments section. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest news surrounding Stephen A. Smith and First Take. Finally, stay with us for everything else going on around the world of sports.
Andre Iguodala, renowned for his strategic play and versatility on the basketball court, has established himself as a significant figure in the NBA. His career, further marked by impressive athleticism and intelligent gameplay, has seen him excel with teams like the Golden State Warriors, contributing to multiple championships.
As of 2024, Iguodala’s achievements in professional basketball, alongside his astute investments and business ventures, have culminated in a net worth of $80 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. This figure also represents his financial acumen and profound impact on the world of sports.
Career & Accolades: A Formidable Presence In The NBA
BROOKLYN, NY – JULY 13: Andre Iguodala and Dwyane Wade attend New York Men’s Fashion Week kick off party hosted by. Amazon Fashion and CFDA at Amazon Imaging Studio on July 13, 2015 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Stephen Lovekin/WireImage)
Iguodala’s journey in the NBA is also highlighted by his role as a dynamic player known for his defensive skills and all-around abilities. His tenure with the Golden State Warriors, including earning the NBA Finals MVP award, was particularly notable. Iguodala’s contributions to his teams have been invaluable, showcasing his leadership on and off the court. His accolades, including All-Star selections and Olympic gold medals, underscore his status as a top-tier player in the league.
Personal Life & Business Ventures: Beyond Basketball
LOS ANGELES, CA – JULY 15: (L-R) NBA player Andre Iguodala with NFL player. Odell Beckham Jr. and Musician Ciara with the award for. Best Play at The 2015 ESPYS at Microsoft Theater on July 15, 2015 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/WireImage)
Off the court, Iguodala’s interests extend into business and investment, where he has made a name for himself in the tech industry. His savvy investments in startups and his involvement in venture capital demonstrate his entrepreneurial spirit and financial intelligence. Iguodala’s personal life, including his family and his commitment to philanthropy, highlights his multifaceted nature and dedication to positively impacting the community.
HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA – JULY 20: (L-R) Juan Toscano-Anderson, Draymond Green, Stephen Curry, Andre Iguodala, and. Klay Thompson of the Golden State Warriors, winners of Best Team, attend the. 2022 ESPYs at Dolby Theatre on July 20, 2022 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images)
Reflecting on Andre Iguodala’s $80 million net worth in 2024, his influence transcends his basketball career. Moreover, he is recognized not only for his on-court achievements but also for his contributions to the business world and as a mentor to young athletes. Overall, Iguodala’s legacy is characterized by his sports excellence and business acumen. He is committed to inspiring future generations in athletics and entrepreneurship.
The inaugural NBA In-Season Tournament Group Play has set new benchmarks, witnessing substantial growth in television viewership, attendance, and digital and social media participation.
In a standout performance, the Nov. 28 clash between the Sacramento Kings and Golden State Warriors on TNT achieved an average of 2 million viewers, making it the most-watched NBA In-Season Tournament game to date, surging by an impressive 93% compared to last season’s equivalent window. Across ESPN and TNT, Group Play games averaged 1.5 million viewers, reflecting a robust 26% increase from the previous season.
Notably, the NBA achieved its highest average attendance on record (18,206) for the month of November through the conclusion of Group Play. Furthermore, the NBA In-Season Tournament fueled exceptional engagement on the NBA App and league social media accounts, accumulating an unprecedented 3.9 billion video views. Meanwhile, watch time on NBA League Pass during the seven Group Play nights witnessed a significant 25% surge compared to the equivalent November dates in the preceding season. The tournament’s resounding success signifies a promising start to this innovative addition to the NBA calendar.
The Golden State Warriors will be without their glue guy, Draymond Green, to start the season. According to ESPN, Draymond will be sidelined for up to six weeks with a left ankle sprain.
The injury occurred during a pickup game at Chase Center when Green stepped on the foot of Jonathan Kuminga.
“I dodged a bullet and learned that today by the way it’s [positively] reacting,” Green said to Andscape’s Marc Spears. “Even with an MRI you don’t see the trend of it immediately. The swelling is down.”
Green is expected to attend the Warriors media day on Monday.
Sources within the Golden State Warriors have told ESPN that the organization is close to securing a WNBA expansion. While the deal is not final yet, sources said it was “expected soon”. The team would play at the Chase Center and be wholly operated by the Warriors. Previously, WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert has stated her desire to add two new teams to the league by 2025. However, no information has emerged about the other potential addition, which would presumably be in the Eastern Conference.
If the Warriors’ deal is finalized, it would mark the first expansion franchise in the WNBA since Atlanta joined the league in 2008. While Engelbert has talked a big game about the desire to expand, there has been little tangible progress. Most recently, the league said they had recently narrowed down a longlist of 200 potential expansion locations. This has proven incredibly frustrating to fans, who have watched sustained growth and expansion in leagues such as soccer’s NWSL. The league, founded in 2012, is due to add two teams in 2024 and another in 2026.
At the start of the 2023 WNBA season, a number of high-profile cuts reignited the demands for expansion. Charli Collier (#1 pick in 2021), Emily Engstler (#4 in 2022), and Abby Meyers (#11 in 2023) were among the players who have been waived by their teams. The Collier, who has played 45 games over the last two seasons, waive was taken especially hard by fans.
“Another day of WNBA roster cuts, another day of needing WNBA roster expansion. Franchises need spots to develop college talent!!” Gaming Society‘s Matt Ellentuck tweeted. “Expansion is needed. However when there’s only 144 spots we have to be realistic. The gap between being a great NCAA player and a good enough #WNBA player is large. You have a few that come in ready but teams don’t have enough time to try & develop. They need you to be ready now.” argued Women’s Hoopz at the time. Hopefully, fans will be happy with the more definitive news that more teams are coming.
The WNBA is set to expand, with the Golden State Warriors leading expansion efforts. The team is expected to bring a new team to the Bay Area.
According to ESPN, the team will center in Oakland and play at the Chase Center. The Warriors will operate the team. This aligns with WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert’s effort to bring two new franchises aboard by 2025.
The most recent expansion of The W came in 2008 when the league added the Atlanta Dream.
The WNBA is nearing a deal to bring a franchise to the Bay Area, per @ThompsonScribe.
Once finalized, the team would share both the Warriors’ HQ in Oakland and the Chase Center.
Draymond Green, a pivotal player for the NBA, has seen his career and bank account flourish over the years. As of 2023, according to Celebrity Net Worth, his estimated net worth stands at a whopping $90 million US dollars. But how did Green reach this monumental figure? Let’s delve into the various avenues of his earnings and the influences behind them.
Draymond’s journey began in Saginaw, Michigan. While many recognize his on-court prowess, Green’s business acumen has played a significant role in amassing his fortune. Over the years, Draymond has consistently showcased exceptional skills in basketball, a quality that saw him receive numerous accolades and lucrative contracts. These contracts, combined with endorsement deals, serve as the foundational pillars of his vast fortune.
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – MAY 26: Draymond Green #23 of the Golden State Warriors reacts after a basket and a foul call during the fourth quarter against the Dallas Mavericks in Game Five of the 2022 NBA Playoffs Western Conference Finals at Chase Center on May 26, 2022 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
It’s no secret that the NBA offers some of the most generous contracts in the sports world. Draymond, being a key player for the Golden State Warriors, has enjoyed the fruits of these offers. While his initial contracts were modest, his performance ensured that subsequent contracts came with significant pay hikes. The culmination of his contracts, with their bonuses and other benefits, contribute sizeably to his net worth.
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 20: Draymond Green #23 of the Golden State Warriors celebrates with the NBA Championship Trophy during the Golden State Warriors Victory Parade on June 20, 2022 in San Francisco, California. The Golden State Warriors beat the Boston Celtics 4-2 to win the 2022 NBA Finals. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
Beyond the court, Draymond’s brand value has attracted many brands looking for a face for their products. He’s struck deals with various companies, from sportswear brands to tech companies. These endorsements, often lucrative, not only provide a steady income but also solidify his standing as a marketable athlete. This dual advantage ensures his net worth sees consistent growth.
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – JUNE 29: Draymond Green (L) and Von Miller meet during Capital One’s The Match VIII – Curry & Thompson vs. Mahomes & Kelce at Wynn Golf Club on June 29, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images for The Match)
Basketball players often have interests beyond the court, and Draymond is no exception. Investments, business ventures, and partnerships have seen Green diversify his portfolio. Whether it’s tech startups in Silicon Valley or franchises across the US, Draymond’s business-savvy decisions have ensured an inflow of cash, augmenting his net worth.
OAKLAND, CA – JUNE 24: Golden State Warriors Draymond Green looks on during JaVale McGees JUGLIFE charity softball game on June 24, 2017, at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum in Oakland, CA. (Photo by Brian Rothmuller/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
A net worth of $90 million undoubtedly affords a luxurious lifestyle, but Draymond is more than just flashy cars and homes. He’s invested in sustainable ventures and has a keen interest in contributing back to the community. His philanthropic endeavors, whether through donations or community work, speak volumes about his character. While these efforts may not directly add to his net worth, they showcase a balance between earning and giving back, a trait often admired in high-net-worth individuals.
Draymond Green’s net worth, standing at an impressive $90 million in 2023, is a testament to his hard work, talent, and business acumen. From lucrative NBA contracts to endorsement deals and wise investments, Green has successfully navigated the waters of wealth accumulation. With his continued involvement both on and off the court, it’s clear that his net worth might see even more growth in the years to come. It’s not just about the money, though; it’s about the legacy he’s building, both as an NBA star and as a community-driven individual.
As NBA training camps approach, teams are starting to finalize their rosters. That is leading some teams to look at the pool of remaining free agents. For the Warriors, they are looking at veteran center Blake Griffin. The 14-year veteran spent the 2022-23 season with the Celtics, playing in 41 games and starting 16. Once one of the league’s hottest players, Griffin now primarily rides the bench as he eases toward retirement.
However, first reported by Sam Amico of HoopsWire, Griffin may be headed to a Western Conference team for the first time since the Clippers traded him during the 2017/18 season. Griffin is one of several high-profile veterans who has worked out with the team. Reportedly, the Warriors are looking for one last player to roster to help with luxury tax savings. G-League prospects Lester Quinones and Jerome Robinson are also in the running for the final 14th roster spot.
Joining the Warriors would see Griffin reunite with one of his most famous teammates. The Warriors traded for Chris Paul earlier in the offseason, sending Jordan Poole to the Wizards who had traded for Paul in exchange for Bradley Beal. Griffin and Paul played together on the LA Clippers between 2011 and 2017. Griffin, if he does join the Warriors, would likely be expected to play a similar role to the one he held on the Nets and Celtics in previous seasons.
However, the Warriors are not the only team interested in acquiring the six-time All-Star. Amico also reported that the Clippers, Celtics, and Sixers were also monitoring Griffin’s free agency status. The Clippers would be an intriguing move for Griffin, as it would be a reunion with the team that drafted him first overall over a decade ago. With this level of interest, it’s likely that Griffin will be settling in with his new team in the near future. Where would you like to see Griffin play next?
Jordan Poole doesn’t have anything to say about Draymond Green. Appearing for the first time as a Washington Wizard, Poole was asked about his run in Golden State end.
When asked about Green’s preseason punch, Poole responded: “We’re in Washington now. Playing with Kuz, great duo. Being able to really flourish, expand your game and help a new team. Help lead an entire group of guys, it’s a challenge that we’re up for.”
Jordan Poole asked about the impact of the Draymond Green incident on the end of his time with the Warriors: “We’re in Washington now. Playing with Kuz. Great duo.” pic.twitter.com/HT9DAK7kjb
The Golden State Warriors fell to the Los Angeles Lakers in six games in the Western Conference Semifinals. After the series was over, the questions were what was next for the Warriors and, more importantly, what went wrong. If you ask Steve Kerr, the team lacked trust in each other.
Speaking with ESPN, Kerr stated the team always had an uphill battle due to a lack of trust, and at the root of that issue was Draymond Green punching Jordan Poole during training camp.
“Anytime some trust is lost, then it makes the process much more difficult, and there was some trust lost,” Kerr said. “That’s as blunt as I can be. We have to get back to what has made us really successful, which is a really trusting environment and a group that relies on one another and makes each other better.”
He added, “There’s no hiding from it — the incident with Draymond and Jordan at the beginning of the year played a role in that. It’s hard for that not to impact a team.”
Here is an extended Steve Kerr perspective on Draymond Green and his future. Said the Warriors are not a title contender if they lose Draymond, but said the preseason punch “compromised” the season. pic.twitter.com/JP4NXtb3HM
Draymond Green echoed the sentiments appearing on Stephen A. Smith’s simulcast of Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals, stating the team was not “able to come together.”
“None of those things happen if that doesn’t happen, because the voice that I am and the departments that I lead this team in, there was a ton of slippage due to me sitting back, me not saying anything, me trying to allow that situation to play itself out and give it time to heal,” Green said.
He added, “About February I started to feel like myself again and speak more.”
Speaking with The Ringer’s Logan Murdock, Poole was asked about how that moment hurt the season. Initially he responded, “I don’t have no answer for you.” Poole followed up with, “We were teammates. It’s just business, honestly. And that’s really all it was, it is, it has been. It’s just been business. It’s been basketball.”
