The NBA and Houston Rockets collaborated to bring exciting initiatives to the AfroTech conference in Houston from Nov. 13-16. One of the key highlights was the first-ever NBA Foundation Tech Challenge, where 25 students from local universities like the University of Houston, Rice University, Prairie View A&M University, and Texas Southern University presented business ideas based on real-world challenges.
Houston Rockets CMO Julian Duncan judged the challenge, NBA All-Star Baron Davis, and Amplitude’s Nikki Lasley. Prairie View A&M took home the top prize, with each student receiving $1,000 and a scholarship funded by a $25,000 donation from Amplitude.
The NBA Foundation also sponsored 100 Houston-area students to attend AfroTech, giving them access to valuable networking opportunities and career insights from top tech professionals. On the Executive Stage, NBA President of Basketball Operations Byron Spruell, WNBA Head of League Operations Bethany Donaphin, and Rockets GM Rafael Stone participated in a panel discussing the intersection of tech and basketball, offering advice on career development.
Additionally, Baron Davis engaged in a Fireside chat about entrepreneurship and innovation, sharing his expertise on blending business and basketball.
Houston Rocket’s Fred VanVleet commented on new Texan Drake‘s caution regarding the Toronto Raptors hanging Demar DeRozan‘s jersey in their rafters when he retires on Draymond Green’s podcast. Drake’s actions and comments toward DeRozan at Sacramento Kings against the Toronto Raptors last week went viral, with the Raptor’s ambassador claiming he would pull down Demar’s jersey should the team retire it with the organization. “If you put up a banner and, I’ll personally pull it down,” said Drizzy when asked about DeRozan by commentators.
A trending topic, Draymond asked VanVleet, a former Raptors player before signing a massive deal with the Rockets, if DeMar DeRozan, now playing for the Kings, can have his jersey retired with the Raptors. When asked about DeRozan’s retirement, Fred VanVleet said: “Yeah, I think it should. I think it should. I think that when you look at what he did, you know, especially when you want to give the history of the franchise and what Vince and all of those guys meant at the beginning and what that meant for Canadian basketball.”
Drake and Demar’s issues stem from the Compton-bred basketball star’s appearance in the music video for the Drizzy diss track “Not Like Us” by Kendrick Lamar. In previous interviews, Demar shared that he appeared in the video because of his West Coast roots but did not have an issue with Drake. Many believe that Drake lost the iconic clash against Kendrick Lamar with “Not Like Us,” which spawned an Amazon-presented concert that united Los Angeles hip-hop. Demar responded to Drake’s comment about retirement after the game by saying, “He going to have a long way to climb to take it down.”
VanVleet played for the Raptors from 2016 to 2023. Traded to the Rockets in 2023, Drizzy made headlines trolling Fred during a regular-season game against the Raptors. Drake refers to Fred as his “look-alike.” Hip-hop shared mixed reviews of Drake’s antics towards the basketball stars. Do you think Demar will retire in Toronto? Will the 6 God seriously rip down the jersey if Toronto hangs it in their rafters? Share your thoughts in the comments section below, and keep an eye on HNHH for more updates.
Draymond Green has long been known as one of the more outspoken NBA players. Sometimes, that leads to trouble, and other times, it leads to just some good old-fashioned smack talk. Green’s latest quote can be put under the label of some good smack talk. When asked about if he is keeping up with how the Houston Rockets were doing each night, Green kept his answer simple, he don’t give a damn.
The statement was quick and efficient for the point that Green was trying to make to the media. The Rockets are in a tightly contested battle with the Golden State Warriors for the final spot in the NBA Playoffs on the Western Conference side. However, Green wasn’t sharing any insight he may have about how he and his team feel about what the Rockets are doing. Which is actually the right attitude to have. Check out the clip of Green’s statement below.
The Rockets trail the Warriors by just one game for the coveted final playoff spot. As tensions grow higher, every game matters from here until the rest of the season. The Warriors will play the Rockets just one more time in the regular season. The meeting takes place on April 4th, when the Warriors will travel to Houston for the marquee matchup. A game that will be must see for all NBA fans.
So, just from Green’s comments it’s easy to see that this playoff push is starting to lie on the shoulders of the player’s. Do you think the Warriors have one more playoff run in them. Or, will this current team need a much needed makeover to be more competitive next season? Let us know your opinion in the comment section. For the latest news in the NBA and sports, keep it right here with HNHH.
In a world where social media often showcases the glitz and glamour of celebrities, it’s heartening to see moments of genuine, heartwarming humanity that transcend the boundaries of fame. Such a moment recently unfolded in the life of Houston rapper Sauce Walka. He recently shed light on the beautiful journey of his non-verbal, autistic daughter who achieved a significant milestone. In an emotional revelation that touched the hearts of fans, Sauce Walka shared on social media the remarkable experience of his daughter speaking for the first time. The rapper, known for his confident and unapologetic persona, couldn’t contain his joy as he was caught in the special moment.
“I really don’t speak on this subject, but my #1stBorn is autistic and nonverbal, and this was the first time she said #OooWwwEee ,” he captioned a heartfelt IG post. This encapsulated the profound emotion that accompanied the milestone. This instance became a beacon of hope and inspiration for individuals and families navigating the challenges of autism. “I would like to give a special thanks to @houstonrockets & @rocketsshop for creating this special moment for me & my family.. This is a day we will always remember,” he continued to write. “Working with the same team I grew up supporting my whole life as a successful rap star is a full circle moment for me. Again thank you @rocketsshop for always selecting me to work with you guys I’m always grateful.”
Moreover, Sauce Walka’s immense gratitude was directed toward the Houston Rockets and Rockets Shop for their role in creating this unforgettable moment. For him, this experience was not just about celebrating his daughter’s achievement but also about a deeper connection. It represented a full-circle moment. Furthermore, this is because of the opportunity to work with the same team he had supported throughout his life.
However, this touching moment transcends the world of music and fame. Additionally, it highlights the incredible strides that individuals with autism can achieve. It proves that love and support can move mountains and celebrate the power of human connection. Moreover, Sauce Walka’s story is a testament to the enduring and uplifting power of family and love.
James Harden, a name synonymous with basketball excellence, has seen his net worth skyrocket over the years. As of 2023, this NBA superstar’s net worth stands at an impressive $165 million, as reported by Celebrity Net Worth. But how did Harden amass such a fortune? Let’s delve deeper into his journey.
Born on August 26, 1989, in Los Angeles, California, James Edward Harden Jr. showcased his basketball prowess from a young age. His high school achievements earned him the title of a McDonald’s All-American. Harden’s college basketball journey at Arizona State further solidified his reputation, paving the way for his entry into the NBA.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 29: James Harden #13 of the Brooklyn Nets inaction against the Indiana Pacers at Barclays Center on October 29, 2021 in New York City. Brooklyn Nets defeated the Indiana Pacers 105-98. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images)
Harden began his NBA journey with the Oklahoma City Thunder, where he quickly made a name for himself. However, it was his move to the Houston Rockets that truly spotlighted his capabilities. His time with the Rockets saw him clinch the MVP Award in 2018 and lead the league in scoring multiple times.
In the 2020-2021 season, Harden was traded to the Brooklyn Nets and later to the Philadelphia 76ers in February 2022. With the 76ers, Harden continued to showcase his brilliance, leading the league in assists in 2023 and joining the ranks of legends like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant with his playoff performances.
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – JANUARY 02: James Harden #1 of the Philadelphia 76ers reacts during the fourth quarter against the New Orleans Pelicans at Wells Fargo Center on January 02, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)
Harden’s net worth isn’t just a result of his basketball prowess. His earnings have seen a steady increase over the years. Initially, he earned around $14.7 million annually. However, by 2017, Harden signed a contract extension with the Rockets, making him the highest-paid player in NBA history with an average of $47 million per year.
Endorsements have also played a significant role in boosting Harden’s net worth. In 2015, he inked a $200-million deal with Adidas, which pays him an average of $15 million annually. Apart from Adidas, Harden has also been associated with brands like State Farm Insurance and even had an endorsement with Trolli’s, where his iconic beard was featured on gummy candies.
HOUSTON, TX – JULY 24: James Harden cheers for his team Dynamo during the quarterfinals match between Club America and Houston Dynamo as part of the Leagues Cup 2019 at BBVA Compass Stadium on July 24, 2019 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Omar Vega/Getty Images)
Apart from his earnings on the court and through endorsements, Harden has made some notable investments. In 2019, he became a part-owner of the Houston Dynamo of MLS and the Houston Dash of NWSL.
On the real estate front, Harden owns a luxurious property in Houston, which he purchased for $2 million in 2015. This Mediterranean-inspired residence boasts features like a sweeping staircase, a stone fireplace, and a theater room. In 2019, Harden further expanded his real estate portfolio by acquiring a 26,000 square-foot residence in Rivercrest, Houston, for a whopping $10 million.
James Harden’s journey from a young basketball enthusiast in Los Angeles to one of the NBA’s top players is truly inspiring. His dedication to the sport, combined with smart financial decisions and lucrative endorsements, has led to his impressive net worth of $165 million in 2023. As Harden continues to play and make strategic off-court decisions, his net worth is only expected to grow.
Kevin Porter Jr. is a player who has dealt with some pretty negative situations in his young NBA career. Overall, it has been hard for him to break through without making headlines that put him in a bad light. Now that he is on the Houston Rockets, there has been increased scrutiny of him. Moreover, there are some who believe he is not ready to be the face of a franchise. That said, things have seemingly gone from bad to worse for the young man.
According to NBC New York, Porter Jr. was arrested after he allegedly assaulted his girlfriend. The girlfriend in question is WNBA star Kysre Gondrezick. As the story goes, the two were in New York City and were out for the night when things got out of hand. Gondrezick locked him out of their hotel room, although he eventually got in. That is when he allegedly put his hands on the young woman. She was taken to the hospital with bruising, and she even had a broken bone.
HOUSTON, TEXAS – MARCH 20: Kevin Porter Jr. #3 of the Houston Rockets dribbles the ball during the game against the Golden State Warriors at Toyota Center on March 20, 2023 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Alex Bierens de Haan/Getty Images)
As for Porter Jr., following his arrest and subsequent booking, he got hit with a second-degree assault charge. Furthermore, he was charged with strangulation. For now, it remains to be seen how this will affect his standing with the Houston Rockets. We saw with Miles Bridges that despite the assault allegations, the team let him come back. Consequently, there is no telling what the Rockets may decide. However, if one thing is for sure, there is going to be public pressure to let him go.
This is a developing story, so stay tuned to HNHH for any updates. We will always be sure to keep you informed. Furthermore, let us know what you think of all this, in the comments section below. What do you think is the proper punishment for Porter Jr.?
The prestigious NBA league is the most coveted and competitive in basketball, and Jalen Green is set to make his mark. The rising youngster has proven to be a wonderkid, quickly dominating the sport. Furthermore, he’s reigniting the thrill of the classic rookie come-up. With the world ahead of him, Green is currently killing it.
Green recently made headlines after being seen with media personality Draya Michele. Naturally, this has caused a bit of an uproar online due to their 17-year age difference. However, this doesn’t take away from the star’s shine, as his skills on the court are exceptional.
Background & Ascent
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – AUGUST 14: Jalen Green #0 of the Houston Rockets poses for a portrait during the 2021 NBA rookie photo shoot on August 14, 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Joe Scarnici/Getty Images)
Born on February 9, 2022, in Merced, California, Jalen Green is a rising basketball prodigy and one to watch. Known for his scoring prowess and exceptional athleticism, the basketball player gained popularity as a top high school recruit. Now, the 21-year-old is regarded by many as having the potential to become a future NBA superstar. Thankfully, and most importantly, his track record since being drafted supports this claim.
His career can be traced back to high school, where he played various sports but quickly gained recognition for his more-than-average basketball skills. He solely focused on basketball afterward. While in school, he participated in numerous national title basketball tournaments and showcases. There, he never passed on the opportunity to exhibit his scoring ability and versatility on the court. It was also during this that he started gaining the attention of scouts.
As a sophomore, Jalen Green helped lead his high school to a state championship in 2018. Furthermore, his exceptional performance earned him MVP honors. All in all, he was ranked as one of the top high school basketball prospects in the country. Due to his stature, position, and playing style, Green has been compared to his idol, basketball legend Kobe Bryant.
NBA G League & Professional Career
TORONTO, ON – APRIL 8: Jalen Green #0 of the Houston Rockets dribbles against the Toronto Raptors. During the first half of their basketball game at the Scotiabank Arena on April 8, 2022 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mark Blinch/Getty Images)
Following his ranking as a top high school basketball prospect, and the prominence of the title, Jalen Green received various offers from many basketball programs. When he was 18, he was ranked the top shooting guard in the recruiting class of 2020. In April 2020, Green decided to bypass college basketball, despite the numerous offers. He instead joined the NBA G League Ignite team. The team was founded in 2020, and on the same day the program was announced, Green became its first member.
His time spent in the G League proved highly effective. The program served as a pathway for Green and other elite prospects to develop their skills and prepare for the NBA Draft while receiving professional coaching. Former NBA player Brian Shaw was the head coach of the Ignite team. Green’s time with the G League showcased his undeniable talent and potential even more. The player regularly displayed his impressive skill set and scoring ability against the competition. This further solidified his status as a top prospect for the 2021 NBA Draft.
After entering the 2021 NBA Draft, Green was selected as the second overall pick by the Houston Rockets, a very impressive accomplishment. His selection marked a significant milestone in the young star’s career, as he successfully transitioned from being a lauded prospect to a bona fide professional NBA player.
HOUSTON, TEXAS – OCTOBER 07: Jalen Green #4 of the Houston Rockets dunks the ball against the Toronto Raptors during the first half at Toyota Center on October 07, 2022 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
The charismatic and confident player already establishes himself as a force to be reckoned with in the league. He has maintained impressive career statistics since he joined the Rockets in 2021, contributing significantly to the team’s victories. He also does not seem to be stepping on the brakes. On the contrary, Green’s future in the NBA holds immense promise, and the star is on a trajectory to become one of the greats.
Kenyon Martin Jr. is the latest NBA player to be linked with a trade this offseason. As the start of free agency approaches, more and more news is emerging about the various plans of some of the league’s biggest stars. June 30 began with indications that a deal to send James Harden to the Clippers was in the works. Meanwhile, Kyrie Irving has gone from one team interested in him to at least six. One of those teams is the Houston Rockets, who are now looking to potentially trade Martin.
Kenyon Martin Jr. played in 82 games this season, starting 49 of them. He averaged a per-game line of 12.5/5.5/1.5. That left him 6th on the Rockets in points per game and 4th in rebounds per game. Taken in the second round of the 2020 draft, Martin Jr. took some major leaps forward in his most recent season. It may be that massive improvement that has the Rockets seeing him as a valuable trade piece.
Rockets Look To Cash In On Martin Jr
Based on reports, here are the most likely outcomes for the #Rockets this free agency.
Per Kelly Iko of The Athletic, trade talks surrounding Martin Jr. has increased in recent days. “To be clear, Martin has not requested a trade since this time last season. But with Houston still seeking avenues to improve their financial flexibility heading into July, Martin’s combination of age, upside and salary makes him an attractive candidate on the market.” Furthermore, the Rockets drafted Villanova SF Cam Whitmore in the first round of the draft. Whitmore’s slide to #20 was one of the biggest surprises of the draft. However, the reality of the situation is that Martin would be battling for minutes with the highly-touted rookie.
Furthermore, as mentioned, trading Martin Jr. is just one of the many threads linked to Houston. It appears that new head coach Ime Udoka is looking to build a blend of balance and youth as the Rockets attempt to finalize their rebuild. The Rockets have their stable of young stars – Whitmore, Alperen Sengun, Jabari Smith Jr., Amen Thompson, Jalen Green, etc. However, they have also been linked to a number of big-name veterans. These include Kyrie Irving, Fred VanVleet, and Dillon Brooks. It appears that the Rockets are going to been one of the most interesting teams to watch in the coming weeks. Follow all the latest NBA updates here at HotNewHipHop.
The Houston Rockets have become the frontrunners to sign Fred VanVleet when free agency opens on June 30. The 29-year-old guard is coming off a down season for the Raptors, where he shot 39.3% and scored 19.3 points per game. It’s the second time in the past three seasons that VanVleet has played at least 50 games and shot below 40%. Subsequently, the Raptors went 41-41 and did not progress past the Play-In Tournament. This led to the firing of head coach Nick Nurse and a rumored rebuild in Toronto.
However, that has not stopped the Rockets from pursuing their chase for the guard. Having picked up one of the Thompson Brothers in the draft, their third top-five pick in the last three years, the Rockets are looking to bring some veteran talent to help lead the team. They have been heavily linked with a reunion with James Harden, but are also eyeing a massive contract for the career Raptor too.
Rockets’ Offer For VanVleet Rumored At $83.6M Over 2 Years
Per Marc Stein, the Rockets reportedly want to snag VanVleet with a 2-year, $83.6 million contract. By comparison, VanVleet made $85 million over four years in his most recent contract with the Raptors. Evidently, the Rockets are hoping that VanVleet’s 2022-23 campaign was merely a blip and that the guard can return to his All-Star form from the season prior. Furthermore, Stein indicates that the Rockets may turn their attention to Boston’s Jaylen Brown if they can’t acquire Harden or VanVleet.
The VanVleet pursuit comes as the Rockets look to turn the corner on their reboot under new head coach Ime Udoka. With the addition of 2023 first-rounder Armen Thompson, the Rockets have a young, strong Big Three. However, the team is very much lacking in the way of meaningful depth and impact veterans. Despite this, the rumored offer is a lock of money to throw at a guy coming off one of the worst years of this career. Furthermore, it was also the most games that VanVleet has started in a season, making it all the more worrying if his numbers persist. What do you think about this rumor? Let us know in the comments. Follow all the latest sports news here at HotNewHipHop.
June 18 saw the first blockbuster trade of the NBA offseason take place. Amid rumors that Zion Williamson and Damian Lillard may be on the move, it was the Washington Wizards who fired the first shot. Veteran guard Bradley Beal was traded to the Phoenix Suns for a package of players and picks. However, that trade may have been the first drops of water that break the proverbial dam in the coming weeks.
Paul George has played for the Clippers since 2019. After spending the first 7 years of his career with the Pacers, George had a brief stint in OKC before being traded to LA. George is an eight-time all-star, most recently this year. This season, the Clippers secured the Western Conference fifth-seed but suffered a first-round exit to the Suns. Now, George could be on the move.
Clippers Gauge Paul George Trade Value
Is another perennial NBA All-Star truly in trade play this week post-Bradley Beal blockbuster? We examine here: https://t.co/Q1UB7w2ehp
Per NBA insider Marc Stein, the Clippers have been investigating what a potential trade for George could net them. “League sources tell The Stein Line that the LA Clippers have left various rival teams with the impression through their Draft Week conversations that they are, at a minimum, attempting to gauge Paul George’s trade value and, to hear some describe it, giving real consideration to the idea of disassembling the Kawhi Leonard/George tandem,” Stein reported in his pay-walled newsletter.
Additionally, Stein reports that two teams with high draft picks have been “identified as potential trade partners.” First, there is the Portland Trail Blazers. Holding the #3 pick in this week’s draft, the Blazers have made it no secret that they are willing to trade their pick away to build an immediate contender around Damian Lillard. Also in the mix is the Houston Rockets, who hold the #4 pick. The Rockets are eager to find a veteran leader for their young rebuild. However, they have also been heavily linked to a possible reunion with James Harden. With Geroge on a player option at the end of the season and the draft just days away, expect these rumors to heat up quickly. Follow all the latest NBA trade rumors here at HotNewHipHop.
