Joe Budden has become the latest person to call reality star Draya Michele a “predator” amid the rumors that the 39-year-old year might be expecting a child with 21-year-old NBA star Jalen Green. “We’ve seen so many NBA stars lose their career, and everything, because of women like this,” Budden said. He also went after co-host MeLyssa Ford, who didn’t appear to have an issue with the relationship. “We don’t have twenty minutes to explain something to you that is right there in front of you,” Budden said dismissively.
However, fans were not quite as on board with Budden’s comments. “He loud about this but said he didn’t wanna speak on Diddy in no shape or form Joe hush ,” noted one fan. “Y’all don’t have this energy for Marques Houston tho ,” added another. Furthermore, many people pointed to Budden’s own past a source of hypocrisy. “Wasn’t Cyn Santana only like 4 years older than Jalen when Joe dated and impregnated her at 39?” asked a third commenter. Elsewhere, Ford had made a cogent point about why Green doesn’t appear to get a say in who he dates.
Basketball Wives and Real Housewives alum Draya Michele is facing “predator” accusations after rumors that she was pregnant emerged online. Michele is reportedly dating young Rockets star Jalen Green. For many social media users, the age gap is unacceptable, especially given that Michele’s eldest child is around the same age as Green. However, at this time, both their relationship and Michele’s pregnancy are just rumors and speculation.
However, part of the outrage beyond the age gap is Green’s apparent immaturity. In early 2023, a video went viral showing Green roughhousing with former teammate Josh Christopher. The short clip showed Christopher pinned below Green with his legs spread in the air. Green, situated between Christopher’s legs, vigorously thrusted in a simulation of a sex act for a few seconds before rolling off Christopher. Both players are seen laughing as the video ends.
Basketball Wives and Real Housewives alum Draya Michele is facing “predator” accusations after rumors that she was pregnant emerged online. Michele is reportedly dating young Rockets star Jalen Green. For many social media users, the age gap is unacceptable, especially given that Michele’s eldest child is around the same age as Green. However, at this time, both their relationship and Michele’s pregnancy are just rumors and speculation. Michele recently celebrating her 39th birthday.
Despite the hate Michele was getting, many other users lamented the invasive nature of celebrity rumor culture. “In 2024 let’s normalize not being invested in what’s going on in stranger’s uteruses,” one person wrote in response to The Jasmine Brand‘s report. “So what if she’s pregnant by her boyfriend. God is good! 39 and carrying a healthy baby is blessing,” added another. “Im sorry but yall cant make everybody infantile!! That man is 21 in a national sports league. You gotta be grown at some point. Now if it was somebody Bronny age then sure but this man fully grown. Please get a grip,” argued a third.
However, part of the outrage beyond the age gap is Green’s apparent immaturity. In early 2023, a video went viral showing Green roughhousing with former teammate Josh Christopher. The short clip showed Christopher pinned below Green with his legs spread in the air. Green, situated between Christopher’s legs, vigorously trusted in a simulation of a sex act for a few seconds before rolling off Christopher. Both players are seen laughing as the video ends.
Meanwhile, Green took to Instagram in late May to troll Ja Morant. Green was on Live, driving and listening to NBA YoungBoy when fans started pointing out the similarities to then-recent Ja Morant gun-flashing scandal. “Everybody’s commenting, ‘Don’t pull no pistol out. They wildin’, my n-gga, man. I don’t got no gun,” Green was heard telling a passenger in the car.
Jalen Green’s ascent in professional basketball is a narrative of sheer talent, hard work, and strategic growth. Since his debut, Green has been turning heads with his athletic prowess and basketball IQ, rapidly becoming one of the most talked-about players in the NBA. As of 2024, his journey through the ranks of professional basketball and his ventures beyond the court have accumulated a net worth of $5 million, as reported by Equity Atlas, signifying his rising status in the sport.
The Court Chronicles: Green’s Basketball Journey
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JULY 29: NBA commissioner Adam Silver and Jalen Green shake hands after. Green was drafted by the Houston Rockets during the 2021 NBA Draft at the. Barclays Center on July 29, 2021 in New York City. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images)
Given his stellar performance in high school and the G League, Green’s entry into the NBA was marked by anticipation. His selection in the NBA Draft was just the beginning of a promising career. Known for his explosive athleticism and scoring ability, Green has been making significant contributions to his team. His growth as a player is evident in his game-by-game performance. It shows a blend of skill and determination that makes him a formidable presence on the court.
Rising Star: Accolades & Acknowledgments
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JULY 29: Jalen Green poses for photos on the red carpet during the 2021. NBA Draft at the Barclays Center on July 29, 2021 in New York City. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images)
In his relatively short time in the NBA, Green has already started to carve out a name for himself. His on-court achievements and improvements have not gone unnoticed, with nominations for various awards and recognition from teammates and opponents. His ability to impact games, whether through scoring, defense, or playmaking, has made him one of the key players to watch in the league.
Beyond The Buzzer: Green’s Off-Court Life
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. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
Away from the basketball court, Green’s life is as dynamic and engaging as his athletic career. His involvement in community initiatives and youth programs reflects his commitment to giving back, using his platform to influence positively. Moreover, Green keeps his personal life relatively private. It is a testament to his balanced approach to managing the demands of a rising sports star.
Jalen Green’s journey is a testament to his hard work, on-court brilliance, and off-court endeavors. His career in the NBA, marked by rapid growth and promising potential, is complemented by his commitment to personal development and community engagement, making him a standout figure in professional basketball.
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.
Earlier this week, rumors began to swirl after Draya Michele was spotted out with Jalen Green. The Houston Rockets player is 21-years-old, marking a 17-year age gap between him and Michele. It’s unclear whether or not the duo is romantically involved at this point, or if their meetup was merely platonic. The two appear to be keeping a pretty fair distance from each other based on the photos, so talk about them being an item is all purely rumors. Either way, social media users are, of course, speculating.
Users have a lot to say about the recent photos, with many feeling as though their age gap is inappropriate. Michele has two children, and one of them, her oldest son, is strikingly close in age to Green. This is something some social media users are taking issue with. With that being said, it’s possible that Green is simply a friend of her son’s. The Basketball Wives star is also known for her previous relationship with another athlete, former pro cornerback Orlando Scandrick. The 38-year-old, as expected, is receiving some criticism for playing the field.
The young NBA player, on the other hand, only began playing for the Houston Rockets in 2021. He’s been making headlines as of late for another controversial move. Last month, a clip of the 21-year-old “humping” one of his former teammates began circulating. In the clip, he’s seen pretending to have sex with Josh Christopher. The two men are seen laughing after the act, making it clear that they were only joking around. Regardless, the clip sparked a bit of a debate surrounding Green’s sexuality.
A lot of the current online chatter surrounds said “humping” video. Some feel as though being spotted with Michele is an attempt to “beat the allegations” that he’s homosexual. Others suggest that this could be a PR move on Michele’s part.
Social Media Reacts
I know it’s just a PR stunt but you making it hard to defend you @drayamichele
A video of Jalen Green “humping” former Rockets teammate Josh Christopher made the rounds on social media this week. The short clip shows Christopher pinned below Green with his legs spread in the air. Green, situated between Christopher’s legs, vigorously thrusts in a simulation of a sex act for a few seconds before rolling off Christopher. Both players are seen laughing as the video ends.
It looks like harmless roughhousing and fooling around. Furthermore, it’s something that if the video hadn’t been leaked, would never have seen the light of day. But of course, we live in a puritanical hellscape and that hates even the implication of homosexuality and so people are being really weird about this. Former NBA Stephen Jackson, reacting to the video, said that “[this sort of behavior] never happened at any of the basketball camps I ever went to. That’s never a thought, how did that come into play?.” The video, shot sometime between 2021 and 2023, features two young friends who are clearly having fun together. Sure, it may look weird to the 45-year-old Jackson but times change.
Another “Dudes Being Dudes” Video People Are Being Weird About
During Michael Rubin’s Fourth of July party, a photo emerged of Lil Baby enjoying a group hug with a couple of dudes. The internet got very weird about this, saying things like “It’s normalizing the gay agenda”. 50 Cent even got in on the action. The rapper proclaimed that he was very confused and upset about the picture. A picture of a consensual hug that he was not involved in. Boosie Badazz later took some subtweet potshots at Fif over his outrage. Kyle Kuzma later posted his own picture hugging Rubin. It still remains chill to hug your dudes. Hell, if you want to (consensually) pin your dude down and rail him, more power to you. And hey, if you don’t want to see this sort of thing, just don’t watch the video. It’s that simple.
According to the ACLU, they are tracking 491 active bills in state legislatures that can be described as anti-LGBTQ+. A separate anti-trans bill tracker claims to be tracking 561 bills in state legislatures. The fundamental right of LGBTQ+ people to simply exist is under attack. If we allow for there to be a “both sides” argument about whether it’s okay for two heterosexual men to platonically hug or jokingly mimic sexual acts, we are allowing the door to remain open for bigotry. It’s really not that deep. And yet, there are people in this world who have nothing better to do than use this as evidence as to why LGBTQ people should not exist. Find something better to do with your life than hating the existence of others.
Ja Morant has been the focal point of off-court NBA news in recent weeks. On May 14, Morant was suspended by the Memphis Grizzlies pending an NBA investigation. The day before, a video of Morant flashing a gun on Instagram Live had gone viral. It was the second time in 2023 that Morant had pulled such a stunt. In March, he had been suspended for eight games after flashing a gun on Instagram Live while at a Denver strip club.
Morant issued an apology that rang hollow with many fans. Furthermore, his apology was only released after NBA Commissioner Adam Silver publicly spoke about the video. On May 24, a cryptic post on Instagram from Morant prompted a police welfare check. The NBA is yet to announce a punishment for Morant. However, league insiders expect it to be lengthy.
Jalen Green Trolls Gun Incident
WASHINGTON, DC – APRIL 09: Jalen Green #4 of the Houston Rockets reacts against the Washington Wizards during the first half at Capital One Arena on April 9, 2023 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)
Jalen Green took to Instagram Live on Wednesday, engaging with followers while driving and listening to NBA YoungBoy. The similarities to Morant’s infamous video were already apparent, but the YoungBoy, intentional or not, sold it for many fans. Morant is a massive YoungBoy fan, and has adopted the lyric “It’s a parade inside my city” as his unofficial motto. “Don’t flash no gun,” one follower said as another added, “Don’t pull a Ja and pull the gun out.”
“Everybody’s commenting, ‘Don’t pull no pistol out,’” Green told another person in the car. “They wildin’, my n***a, man. I don’t got no gun.” Green is one of the young stars on a slowly rebuilding Houston Rockets team. Skipping college for the G League, Green was drafted second overall in 2021. The Rockets currently hold the fourth overall pick in the 2023 draft as they continue to try and return to contention in the NBA. However, the incident clearly shows that Green knows how to have a little bit of fun. Follow all the latest sports news here at HotNewHipHop.
The 2023 Jordan Rising Stars game has announced the player pool for the NBA’s showcase of young talent.
Rising Stars will once again include a three-game mini-tournament between four teams of NBA rookies, sophomores, and NBA G League players.
28 players, including 11 NBA rookies, 10 NBA sophomores, and 7 NBA G League players, will compete in the Jordan Rising Stars.
Jordan Rising Stars will feature a mini-tournament with four teams and three games. Each game will be played to a Final Target Score. Honorary coaches are Pau Gasol, Joakim Noah, Jason Terry and Deron Williams.
Onto three seven-player teams, the 21 NBA players chosen by NBA assistant coaches will be drafted. The fourth team will be made up of the seven NBA G League players chosen by the NBA league office.
Basketball greats Pau Gasol, a six-time NBA All-Star and two-time NBA champion, Joakim Noah, a two-time NBA All-Star and the 2013–14 Kia NBA Defensive Player of the Year, and Deron Williams, a three-time NBA All-Star and two-time All–NBA Second Team member, will serve as honorary head coaches for the Jordan Rising Stars teams, which are made up of rookies and sophomores.
The 2008–09 Kia NBA Sixth Man of the Year and 2011 NBA Champion Jason Terry, a current Jazz assistant coach and former head coach of the NBA G League’s Grand Rapids Gold, will serve as the team’s captain.
While fans wait patiently for any word of her next musical endeavor, Beyonce continues to make moves in other areas. Her latest is a new Ivy Park collection inspired by collegiate fashion and to promote the new line, she shared a hype video featuring Ivy Park’s newest recruits. While fans have come to expect Beyonce (and Blue Ivy) to appear in the campaigns alongside a diverse array of models, to show off the new collection, she tapped an unexpected source for her newest brand ambassadors: the NBA.
The ad, which starts off with calm music and shots overlooking an austere university campus, quickly picks up its tempo as a bass-heavy beat fades in to overtake the classical vibes with a new, brasher attitude. The shots of students coolly playing table tennis give way to close-ups of NBA stars James Harden and Jalen Green (formerly and currently of Beyonce’s hometown Houston Rockets, respectively), dribbling basketballs emblazoned with both Adidas and Ivy Park logos.
The new looks suggest that the athleisure brand is looking to expand its influence beyond just hardcore Beyonce stans and casual exercise enthusiasts. According to Complex, Halls of Ivy collection will include 89 pieces of apparel, 11 accessories, and four new footwear selections including the Savage sneaker and Super Sleek Boot. The collection launches worldwide on December 10, with an exclusive preview via Adidas’ site on December 9.
Watch Beyonce’s latest Ivy Park campaign video above.
,” noted one fan. “Y’all don’t have this energy for Marques Houston tho 
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